USMLE Forum Archives - USMLE Step 3 - IM: Diagnosis
IM: Diagnosis
meduploader - 06-07-09 15:36
A 32-year-old male presented with complaints of easy fatigue, feeling cold, constipation, and muscle cramping. Physical examination revealed a cool, rough, dry skin; puffy face and hands; hoarse voice; and slow reflexes. Blood pressure was 116/72, pulse 54 min and respiration rate was 11 min. ECG revealed low voltage QRS. Routine urinalysis, complete blood cell count, electrolytes, glucose, BUN, and creatinine were in the normal range. Which of the following tests would be most likely to help in the diagnosis of his condition?
meduploader - 06-07-09 15:36
A 32-year-old male presented with complaints of easy fatigue, feeling cold, constipation, and muscle cramping. Physical examination revealed a cool, rough, dry skin; puffy face and hands; hoarse voice; and slow reflexes. Blood pressure was 116/72, pulse 54 min and respiration rate was 11 min. ECG revealed low voltage QRS. Routine urinalysis, complete blood cell count, electrolytes, glucose, BUN, and creatinine were in the normal range. Which of the following tests would be most likely to help in the diagnosis of his condition?
The correct answer and explanation will be available after you answer.
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#17
Re: IM: Diagnosis conym5 - 12-24-09 08:09 My answer is: c.
Diagnosis of hypothyroidism is based on your symptoms and the results of blood tests that measure the level of TSH and sometimes the level of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. A low level of thyroxine and high level of TSH indicate an underactive thyroid.
#23
Re: IM: Diagnosis conym5 - 04-11-10 08:55 TSH measurements should be combined with determination of free thyroxin (FT4). The reason for this is that the patient has a typical presentation, and both tests have the ability to distinguish between primary hypothyroidism (low FT4, and high TSH) and secondary (or tertiary) hypothyroidism (low FT4, and low TSH).
#28
Re: IM: Diagnosis babbu5508 - 09-30-10 12:56 My answer is: c.
the patient probably is suffering from hypothyroidism- cool, rough, dry skin; puffy face and hands; hoarse voice; and slow reflexes.
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