USMLE Step 1 QUESTION of the DAY!

All of the following lung conditions have a Forced expiratory volume per 1 second to forced vital capacity ratio (FEV1/FVC) less than 80% EXCEPT:

A) Sarcoidosis
B) Asthma
C) Bronchiectasis
D) Emphysema
E) Chronic bronchitis

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Answer: A) Sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis is a restrictive lung disease. The others are obstructive lung diseases. Normal FEV1/FVC ratio is 80%. Restrictive lung diseases have a ratio above 80% with decreases in lung volumes. Obstructive lung diseases have a ratio less than 80% with increases in lung volumes.



USMLE Step 1 D.O.C. of the DAY!

Drug of choice for

Nocardia causing pneumonia

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Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole



USMLE Step 1 Fact of the Day!

Drug Profile: Metronidazole (FLAGYL)
- Effective against protozoa (not cysts) & anaerobic bacteria, undergoes nitroreduction
- Forms reactive intermediate (radical) that leads to damages DNA, DNA strand breaks
- Intestinal/systemic action: TID 7-10 days
- DOC for Clostridium difficile, mild-severe amebiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis, also bacterial vaginosis
- ADRs: GI problems/metallic taste, headache, paresthesias, ataxia, liver dysfunction Disulfiram rx (alcohol); Contraindicated in 1st/Trim. pregnancy