He is afebrile. His cardiac, lung, and abdominal examinations are normal. Visualization of the anus shows no erythema, masses, or inflammation. Digital rectal examination elicits an irregular, firm mass on the posterior side of the rectum. After you remove your finger you notice frank blood on your glove. What anal or rectal disorder is this patient most likely to have?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The patient in this scenario presents with symptoms suggestive of an anorectal disorder. The presence of an irregular, firm mass on the posterior side of the rectum, along with frank blood seen on the glove after a digital rectal examination, raises suspicion for an underlying anorectal cancer. Anorectal cancer can present with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, palpable masses, and weight loss. In this case, the findings of an irregular mass and rectal bleeding are concerning for a malignant process such as anorectal cancer. Further evaluation with imaging studies and biopsy would be warranted for confirmation and to guide appropriate management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Paraphimosis is a condition where the foreskin is retracted behind the glans penis and cannot be returned to its original position. This can lead to swelling and constriction of the penis, causing pain and potential damage to the tissue due to decreased blood flow. Phimosis (Choice A) refers to a tight prepuce that cannot be retracted over the glans penis. Balanitis (Choice C) is inflammation of the glans penis, often associated with poor hygiene or infections. Balanoposthitis (Choice D) refers to inflammation of both the glans penis and the foreskin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Inspiratory splitting of S occurs due to the normal physiological delay in the closure of the aortic and pulmonic valves during inspiration. During inspiration, the negative intrathoracic pressure leads to increased venous return to the right side of the heart, causing a slight delay in the closure of the pulmonic valve. This results in the aortic valve closing first, followed by the closure of the pulmonic valve, leading to the splitting of S during inspiration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Based on the description provided, the skin lesions are most consistent with seborrheic keratosis. Seborrheic keratoses are common non-cancerous (benign) growths of the skin that often appear as brown, black, or light tan growths with a waxy, stuck-on appearance. They can vary in color and may be round or oval, with a well-defined border. Seborrheic keratoses are typically asymptomatic and can be found on various parts of the body including the face, arms, and legs. The dry, hard scale covering the lesion is typical for seborrheic keratoses.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Chronic arterial insufficiency results in poor blood flow to the lower extremities. This leads to inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the tissues, causing damage and changes in the skin. A common physical examination finding in chronic arterial insufficiency is thin, shiny, atrophic skin. The skin may appear pale, cool to the touch, and may have decreased hair growth. It is important to note that other findings such as diminished or absent pulses and reduced temperatures may also be present with chronic arterial insufficiency.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The patient in this scenario presents with symptoms suggestive of an anorectal disorder. The presence of an irregular, firm mass on the posterior side of the rectum, along with frank blood seen on the glove after a digital rectal examination, raises suspicion for an underlying anorectal cancer. Anorectal cancer can present with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, palpable masses, and weight loss. In this case, the findings of an irregular mass and rectal bleeding are concerning for a malignant process such as anorectal cancer. Further evaluation with imaging studies and biopsy would be warranted for confirmation and to guide appropriate management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The statement that a high proportion of breast masses are detected by breast self-examination is true. Studies have shown that only a small percentage of breast cancers are actually detected by women themselves through self-examination. In fact, most breast cancers are detected through clinical breast exams and mammograms. Therefore, while it is still important for women to be breast aware and report any changes they notice to their healthcare provider, the practice of routine breast self-examinations is no longer universally recommended. Instead, the focus has shifted towards regular clinical breast exams and mammograms based on individual risk factors.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The described findings of a triangular thickening of the bulbar conjunctiva across the outer surface of the cornea are characteristic of a pterygium. A pterygium is a benign growth of conjunctival tissue that extends onto the cornea. It is often associated with chronic exposure to ultraviolet light and typically occurs on the nasal side of the eye. Pterygiums are usually asymptomatic but can cause irritation, redness, and foreign body sensation in some cases. Surgical removal may be considered if the pterygium causes significant symptoms or affects vision.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Option B, briefy summarizing what you heard from the patient in the first 5 minutes and then trying to have her focus on one aspect of what she told you, is the best technique to facilitate a more focused and efficient interview. This approach acknowledges the patient's need to talk while also guiding the conversation towards more relevant topics. By summarizing at the beginning, you demonstrate that you are listening, and by redirecting the conversation to specific points, you can ensure that important issues are addressed within the time constraints of the appointment. It can help streamline the visit and prevent it from meandering off track due to the patient's chattiness.