ATI RN
Pediatric Neurology Test Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Dandy-Walker malformation is characterized by the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Dandy-Walker malformation involvcystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle , hypoplasia of the cerebellar vermis , and often hydrocephalus due to impaired CSF flow, with an enlarged posterior fossa as a hallmark. Herniation of cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum , however, is characteristic of Chiari malformation, not Dandy-Walker. This key distinction make B the exception and correct answer, as it reflects a different pathology unrelated to the posterior fossa cystic changdefining Dandy-Walker. The confusion may arise from overlapping cerebellar issues, but tonsillar herniation is not a feature here.
Question 2 of 5
Absence seizurare MOST often initially treated with
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Absence seizures, brief lapsin awareness, are best treated initially with ethosuximide , which targets T-type calcium channels in thalamic neurons, reducing absence seizure frequency with fewer side effects. Valproate is effective but broader-spectrum, used if absence coexists with other seizures, and has more side effects (e.g., weight gain). Lamotrigine is less effective for absence alone, while acetazolamide and clonazepam are secondary options. Guidelin(e.g., NICE) favor ethosuximide for its efficacy and tolerability in typical absence, making A the correct answer over broader or less specific alternatives.
Question 3 of 5
The MOST common cause of neonatal seizuris
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is the leading cause of neonatal seizures, occurring in 1-2 per 1,000 live births, due to perinatal asphyxia impairing cerebral oxygenation and triggering seizures. Vascular events like stroke, infections like meningitis, brain malformations , and metabolic disturbanc(e.g., hypoglycemia) are less common, with HIE dominating due to its prevalence in term infants and direct neuronal injury. Studi(e.g., VolpNeurology of the Newborn) confirm HIprominence, making D the correct answer over other etiologies.
Question 4 of 5
Definite tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is diagnosed when at least 2 major or 1 major plus 2 minor featurare present, all the following are minor featurEXCEPT
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: TSC diagnosis usmajor (e.g., shagreen patch) and minor featur(e.g., dental pits, gingival fibromas). Shagreen patch is a major feature connective tissue nevus not minor, unlike cerebral migration lin, dental pits , gingival fibromas , and bone cysts . This classification (TSC Consensus) distinguishA as the exception and correct answer, as it elevatdiagnostic weight beyond minor status.
Question 5 of 5
The MOST common type of cerebral palsy (CP) associated with seizuris
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Spastic quadriplegia is the most seizure-associated CP type, affecting all limbs and often linked to severe brain injury (e.g., HIE), increasing epilepsy risk (~50%). Spastic hemiplegia and diplegia have lower rat(~30% and 20%), while hypotonic and ataxic CP are less epileptogenic. Quadriplegias extensive cortical damage drivits seizure prevalence, making B the correct answer.