USMLE Forum Archives - USMLE Step 3 - SLE & death
SLE & death
harry206 - 05-10-09 08:26
A 36-year-old Caucasian woman comes to the emergency department because of chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. She was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus seven years ago and has had renal involvement. She was recently discharged from the hospital for an exacerbation. She does not use tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. Her medications include prednisone and hydroxychloroquine. Her temperature is 37.2 C (99 F), blood pressure is 150/90 mmHg, pulse is 158/min, and respirations are 26/min. While in the emergency room, she was coded because of ventricular fibrillation, and she dies, despite resuscitative efforts. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her death?
harry206 - 05-10-09 08:26
A 36-year-old Caucasian woman comes to the emergency department because of chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. She was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus seven years ago and has had renal involvement. She was recently discharged from the hospital for an exacerbation. She does not use tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. Her medications include prednisone and hydroxychloroquine. Her temperature is 37.2 C (99 F), blood pressure is 150/90 mmHg, pulse is 158/min, and respirations are 26/min. While in the emergency room, she was coded because of ventricular fibrillation, and she dies, despite resuscitative efforts. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her death?
The correct answer and explanation will be available after you answer.
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#1
Re: SLE & death bingousmle - 05-10-09 08:36 My answer is: a.
the incidence of myocardial infarctions is greater in SLEpatients as compared to the general population and hence it is essential that they minimize the risk factors for atherosclerrosis...
#21
Re: SLE & death babbu5508 - 07-28-10 05:18 My answer is: b.
Coronary artery disease is overwhelmingly atherosclerotic in nature, but inflammatory disease of the coronary arteries can be just as life-threatening a cause of ischemic heart disease in all age groups.
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