Selected MCCQE MCCQE Part 1 Questions Answers

This patient’s symptoms of polyuria, polydipsia, and recurrent vaginitis are classic for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) . Recurrent vaginal candidiasis occurs due to glycosuria promoting yeast overgrowth. MCCQE objectives emphasize identifying risk factors and historical features supporting diabetes. A prior delivery of a macrosomic infant ( > 4000–4500 g) is strongly associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) , which significantly increases the future risk of developing T2DM. Therefore, a history of macrosomia supports undiagnosed or previous gestational hyperglycemia and increases suspicion for current diabetes.

High-risk sexual behaviors relate to sexually transmitted infections, not diabetes. Family history of hypertension is a cardiovascular risk factor but does not specifically support diabetes. Recent antibiotic use may predispose to candidiasis but would not explain polyuria and polydipsia. Dry eyes are more suggestive of autoimmune conditions (e.g., Sjögren syndrome).

Thus, prior delivery of a macrosomic newborn strengthens the likelihood that her current symptoms are due to type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can cause hyperkalemia, especially in patients with impaired renal function. Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, particularly wide complex tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation.

Toronto Notes 2023 – Cardiology and Nephrology, “Hyperkalemia” Section:

“Patients with CKD are at increased risk for hyperkalemia, particularly when taking potassium-sparing medications such as spironolactone. Severe hyperkalemia may cause bradycardia or wide-complex tachyarrhythmias.”

MCCQE1 Objectives (Internal Medicine > 76-2: Electrolyte Abnormalities):

“Candidates must recognize drug-induced hyperkalemia as a cause of cardiac arrhythmias, especially in patients with renal dysfunction.”

Hydrochlorothiazide (B) can cause hypokalemia. Metoprolol (C) and diltiazem (E) are rate-controlling agents but do not typically cause wide complex tachycardia. Clopidogrel (D) has no effect on cardiac conduction.

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The presentation is consistent with rotator cuff tendinopathy or subacromial impingement. The painful arc between 30°–120° with preserved passive ROM suggests this. Ultrasound is the preferred initial imaging modality due to its availability, safety, and ability to visualize soft tissues dynamically.

Toronto Notes 2023 – Orthopedics, “Shoulder Pathologies” Section:

“In rotator cuff injuries or impingement syndromes, initial imaging with musculoskeletal ultrasound is appropriate. It can identify tendinopathy, partial tears, or subacromial bursitis.”

MCCQE1 Objectives (Surgery > 84-7: Musculoskeletal Pain):

“Candidates should initiate workup for rotator cuff or impingement syndromes with ultrasound as the first-line test, reserving more invasive or costly procedures for unresolved or complex cases.”

CT (A) is used for bony detail, not soft tissues. Arthroscopy (C) is invasive and therapeutic. Arthrography (D) is outdated and largely replaced by MRI or ultrasound.

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This patient is experiencing mild hypothermia (32–35°C), evidenced by shivering, ataxia, and tachycardia. First-line management includes passive external rewarming — removing wet clothing, providing warm blankets, and ensuring a warm environment (ambient temperature ~28°C).

Toronto Notes 2023 – Emergency Medicine, Environmental Injuries:

“Mild hypothermia (32–35°C): Treatment includes passive rewarming (warm blankets, warm environment). Avoid active rewarming methods to extremities due to risk of afterdrop.”

MCCQE1 Objectives – Internal Medicine > Environmental Exposure:

“Candidates must recognize appropriate levels of hypothermia and select evidence-based rewarming strategies based on severity.”

Options A, C, and D are used in moderate to severe hypothermia ( < 32°C or unconscious patients). Heating pads (B) may cause tissue damage, especially with frostbite.

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