2026 New MCCQE Exam Questions Real Medical Council of Canada Dumps
Course 2026 MCCQE Test Prep Training Practice Exam Download
NEW QUESTION # 205
A 3-year-old boy is brought to the office because he has progressive weight gain and short stature. He has marked truncal obesity, hypertrichosis of the upper lip, and facial swelling. Which one of the following is a physical examination most likely to reveal?
- A. Cafe-au-lait spots
- B. Acanthosis
- C. Thyroid goiter
- D. Hypertension
- E. Hepatomegaly
Answer: D
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
The child's presentation (weight gain, short stature, truncal obesity, facial swelling, hypertrichosis) is classic for Cushing syndrome. One of the hallmark findings on physical examination in pediatric Cushing syndrome is hypertension, due to increased cortisol-mediated mineralocorticoid receptor activation.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics / Endocrinology:
"Cushing syndrome in children presents with growth failure, weight gain, moon facies, truncal obesity, and hypertension." MCCQE1 Objectives (Pediatrics > 77-2: Endocrine Disorders in Children):
"Candidates must identify clinical signs of hypercortisolism and evaluate for associated findings such as elevated blood pressure." Cafe-au-lait spots (A) suggest neurofibromatosis. Goiter (C) is more related to thyroid dysfunction.
Hepatomegaly (D) and acanthosis (E) are more commonly seen in metabolic syndrome or insulin resistance.
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NEW QUESTION # 206
An 83-year-old woman presents to your office with a 2-day history of confusion. Her past medical history is significant for lung cancer, and she is being treated with radiation. On physical examination, she is euvolemic.
Her blood work reveals a serum sodium of 118 mmol/L (135-140) as compared with 134 mmol/L (8 days ago). Which one of the following will be most helpful in establishing the cause of her laboratory abnormality?
- A. Parathyroid hormone-related peptide
- B. Serum osmolality
- C. Urinalysis
- D. Urine sodium
- E. Creatinine clearance
Answer: B
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
Hyponatremia in a patient with lung cancer and euvolemia strongly suggests syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), especially from small cell carcinoma. Serum osmolality is the best initial test to confirm hypotonic hyponatremia and distinguish true hyponatremia from pseudohyponatremia or other causes.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Endocrinology, "Hyponatremia":
"Serum osmolality helps classify hyponatremia as hypotonic, isotonic, or hypertonic. SIADH typically causes hypotonic hyponatremia in euvolemic patients." MCCQE1 Objectives (Endocrinology > 37-1: Electrolyte Disorders):
"Candidates must evaluate the type and cause of hyponatremia using clinical status and laboratory tests including serum osmolality." Urine sodium (B) is useful after confirming hypotonicity. PTHrP (E) is associated with hypercalcemia of malignancy, not hyponatremia. Urinalysis (A) and CrCl (D) are less directly informative.
NEW QUESTION # 207
You are examining a newborn in the delivery room. He was born at full term by spontaneous vaginal delivery.
On examination, he is active, and his vital signs are within normal range. His head circumference is at the third percentile, with height and weight at the 10th percentile. Auscultation of his chest is clear with normal cardiovascular examination findings. The abdomen is protuberant with a liver edge palpable at 4 cm below the costal margin and mild splenomegaly. Which one of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Cystic fibrosis
- B. Cephalic molding
- C. Trisomy 21
- D. Lipid storage disease
- E. Congenital viral infection
Answer: E
Explanation:
Microcephaly, intrauterine growth restriction, hepatosplenomegaly, and normal vital signs in a term newborn strongly suggest congenital viral infection (e.g., CMV, toxoplasmosis, rubella).
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics, Congenital Infections:
"Signs of congenital TORCH infections include microcephaly, hepatosplenomegaly, and growth restriction.
Early identification is key."
MCCQE1 Objectives - Pediatrics > Infectious Disease:
"Candidates must recognize signs suggestive of congenital infections and distinguish from genetic or structural abnormalities." Cephalic molding (A) is benign and resolves spontaneously. Lipid storage diseases (B) are not present at birth. Cystic fibrosis (C) does not cause microcephaly or hepatosplenomegaly at birth. Trisomy 21 (D) has distinct dysmorphic features not described here.
NEW QUESTION # 208
A 36-year-old woman, gravida 1, para 0, aborta 0, presents to the Labour and Delivery unit of a primary care hospital. She is at 40 weeks' gestation. She is having contractions and leaking fluid. She is fearful and does not want to deliver vaginally. Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Offer to organize a cesarean delivery.
- B. Explore her concerns and explain pain management options.
- C. Ask a colleague for a second opinion.
- D. Explain that a cesarean delivery is not an option.
- E. Suggest intravenous analgesia.
Answer: B
Explanation:
The most appropriate next step is to explore her concerns and provide counselling regarding labour and pain management options . MCCQE objectives emphasize patient-centered care, informed decision-making, and respect for autonomy while ensuring that patients receive appropriate information about risks and benefits.
This patient is in active labour at term with ruptured membranes and expresses fear about vaginal delivery.
The immediate priority is to assess the source of her fear (pain, complications, prior trauma, misinformation) and provide education about available analgesia options (e.g., epidural, intravenous opioids, nonpharmacologic methods) and the relative risks and benefits of cesarean versus vaginal delivery.
Automatically arranging a cesarean without discussion is inappropriate, particularly in a primary care setting without clear medical indication. Conversely, refusing cesarean outright is paternalistic and fails to address her concerns. Analgesia may be appropriate but should follow exploration of her preferences. Therefore, empathetic discussion and shared decision-making are the best initial approach.
NEW QUESTION # 209
A 9-year-old girl is brought to the Emergency Department because she has generalized urticaria, abdominal cramping, and postural dizziness 30 minutes after eating at a friend's birthday party. Which one of the following is the most appropriate route of administration for epinephrine?
- A. Inhaled
- B. Subcutaneous
- C. Intramuscular
- D. Intranasal
- E. Intravenous
Answer: C
Explanation:
Anaphylaxis requires immediate administration of epinephrine via the intramuscular (IM) route, typically in the lateral thigh. This route provides the fastest and most reliable absorption for emergency treatment.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics, Anaphylaxis:
"Epinephrine 0.01 mg/kg IM is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. The intramuscular route provides the most rapid and safe absorption in emergencies." MCCQE1 Objectives - Pediatrics > Allergy and Immunology:
"Candidates must know the emergency management of anaphylaxis, including proper dosage and intramuscular administration of epinephrine." IV administration (A) is reserved for critical care settings. Subcutaneous (C) and intranasal/inhaled routes (D, E) are ineffective in anaphylaxis.
NEW QUESTION # 210
Which one of the following bodies decides whether a physician is permitted to practise medicine in a province or territory?
- A. The provincial or territorial Ministry of Health
- B. The board of the hospital or health region where the physician wants to practise
- C. The provincial or territorial medical licensing authority
- D. The provincial or territorial medical association
- E. The College of Family Physicians of Canada or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Answer: C
NEW QUESTION # 211
A 29-year-old man comes to the office for an initial visit. He is being treated for schizophrenia and epilepsy.
He has a 20 pack-year history of smoking. His medications are carbamazepine, clozapine, and quetiapine. In the past year, he has gained a considerable amount of weight. Asidefrom a BMI of 32, the results of his physical examination are unremarkable. Which one of the following conditions should he be investigated for?
- A. Acromegaly
- B. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- C. Sleep apnea
- D. Type 2 diabetes
- E. Cushing disease
Answer: D
Explanation:
Clozapine and quetiapine are associated with significant weight gain and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
With a BMI of 32 and weight gain over the past year, screening for diabetes is appropriate and evidence- based.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Endocrinology, Diabetes & Psychiatry Sections:
"Second-generation antipsychotics such as clozapine increase the risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Regular screening is recommended for patients with these risk factors." MCCQE1 Objectives - Internal Medicine > Endocrinology:
"Candidates should screen high-risk individuals, especially those on antipsychotics with weight gain, for diabetes using fasting glucose or HbA1c." While sleep apnea (C) is also possible, diabetes screening is the most appropriate and urgent next step in this patient. COPD (A) would present with respiratory symptoms. Cushing's (B) and acromegaly (E) are less common and have other distinct features.
NEW QUESTION # 212
A 14-year-old girl, accompanied by her mother, presents to your office with a 3-month history of feeling " dizzy. " After you take an initial history, which one of the following is the most appropriate next step?
- A. Interview the girl without the mother present
- B. Obtain growth parameters and vital signs
- C. Order a urine pregnancy test
- D. Do a bedside glucometer reading
- E. Perform a detailed cardiac and neurological examination
Answer: A
Explanation:
In adolescents presenting with vague or potentially sensitive symptoms, it is critical to speak with them alone to obtain a complete and honest history, including mental health, sexual activity, substance use, and abuse screening.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine:
"Private interviews are essential to obtain accurate histories in adolescents, especially when symptoms may have underlying psychosocial or reproductive causes." MCCQE1 Objectives - Pediatrics > Adolescent Health:
"Candidates must demonstrate adolescent-appropriate interviewing techniques, including private questioning to identify sensitive or risk-related concerns." Physical examination and pregnancy testing (A, B, D) may follow based on the private history. Vital signs (E) are standard but do not replace psychosocial assessment.
NEW QUESTION # 213
A 94-year-old woman with severe dementia is referred for vaginal bleeding and a persistent foul odour from the vagina. She lives in a long-term care facility. She has been using a ring pessary for the past 15 years. Her current pessary has not been replaced in 2 years. On examination, there is moderate vaginal atrophy. After removing the pessary, which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Perform a vaginal biopsy.
- B. Start vaginal estrogen.
- C. Arrange for a hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy.
- D. Wash the pessary and recommend a daily saline douche.
- E. Prescribe vaginal metronidazole gel.
Answer: B
Explanation:
In elderly women with long-term pessary use and signs of vaginal atrophy (thin epithelium, bleeding, odor), local estrogen is the most appropriate initial treatment to restore the vaginal epithelium and reduce inflammation and discharge. Vaginal estrogen improves mucosal integrity and reduces complications like ulceration, infection, and bleeding.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Gynecology, "Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Pessary Care" Section:
"Local vaginal estrogen therapy is recommended for postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy who are using pessaries. It reduces the risk of erosions, bleeding, and infection, especially when pessary follow-up has been suboptimal." MCCQE1 Objectives (Obstetrics and Gynecology > 82-9: Vaginal Bleeding in Postmenopausal Women):
"Candidates should recognize vaginal atrophy as a common and treatable cause of bleeding in elderly women using pessaries." A biopsy (E) may be needed if symptoms persist after atrophy is treated. Hysteroscopy (A) is invasive and not first-line in this setting. Metronidazole (B) is not indicated without evidence of bacterial vaginosis. Daily saline douching (D) is not recommended and may irritate atrophic mucosa.
NEW QUESTION # 214
A 46-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with left-sided pleuritic chest pain that improves when she sits up and leans forward. Her medical history is unremarkable and she takes no medications.
Examination reveals a pericardial friction rub; the findings are otherwise normal. An electrocardiogram reveals diffuse ST segment elevation and PR interval depression. An echocardiogram reveals a small pericardial effusion. Which one of the following is the most appropriate treatment?
- A. High-dose acetylsalicylic acid.
- B. Apixaban.
- C. Pericardiocentesis.
- D. Metoprolol.
- E. Levofloxacin.
Answer: A
Explanation:
This patient has classic acute pericarditis : pleuritic chest pain relieved by sitting forward, a pericardial friction rub, diffuse ST-segment elevation with PR depression on ECG, and a small pericardial effusion on echocardiogram. MCCQE objectives emphasize recognizing the characteristic clinical and ECG features that distinguish pericarditis from myocardial infarction (diffuse ST elevation rather than territorial changes).
First-line treatment for uncomplicated acute pericarditis is high-dose nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory therapy , such as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or ibuprofen, often combined with colchicine to reduce recurrence risk.
ASA is particularly appropriate when ischemia is in the differential diagnosis.
Apixaban (anticoagulation) is not indicated and may worsen effusion. Pericardiocentesis is reserved for large effusions or cardiac tamponade. Levofloxacin is unnecessary without evidence of bacterial infection. Beta- blockers such as metoprolol do not treat pericardial inflammation.
Thus, high-dose acetylsalicylic acid is the most appropriate initial management for uncomplicated acute pericarditis.
NEW QUESTION # 215
A 25-year-old woman who is at 8 weeks ' gestation plans to travel to rural Cambodia to care for her ill mother. Which one of the following treatments should be provided to her before the trip?
- A. Antimalarial chemoprophylaxis
- B. Ciprofloxacin for travellers ' diarrhea
- C. Tetanus and diphtheria booster if last received more than 5 years ago
- D. Hepatitis B immunoglobulin
Answer: A
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
Travel to rural Cambodia poses a high risk of malaria, which can be life-threatening in pregnancy.
Antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended for pregnant women traveling to endemic regions.
Chloroquine or mefloquine (depending on resistance patterns) may be used in pregnancy under specialist guidance.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Infectious Disease / Travel Medicine:
"Malaria prophylaxis is indicated in pregnant women traveling to endemic regions. The risk of severe malaria and poor fetal outcomes is high." MCCQE1 Objectives (Public Health > 65-3: Travel Medicine and Pregnancy):
"Candidates must provide preventive care to pregnant travelers including vaccination and malaria prophylaxis." Tetanus boosters (D) are given every 10 years. Hep B Ig (B) is for acute post-exposure prophylaxis.
Ciprofloxacin (C) is contraindicated in pregnancy.
NEW QUESTION # 216
A mother brings her 13-year-old daughter to the office. The girl has had intermittent lower abdominal pain, constipation, and difficulty voiding for 3 months. She says that she is not sexually active. She looks well. She has reached age-specific developmental milestones, and her vital signs are within normal range. On abdominal examination, she is found to have a palpable suprapubic mass that persists after voiding. The girl says that her older sister started having menstrual periods at this age. The patient is surprised that hers have not started. Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Pelvic ultrasonography.
- B. Examination of external genitalia.
- C. Measurement of serum human chorionic gonadotropin.
- D. Urinalysis.
- E. Abdominal radiography.
Answer: B
Explanation:
The clinical picture suggests an obstructive anomaly of the female reproductive tract, such as imperforate hymen or vaginal outflow tract obstruction, leading to hematocolpos. The first essential step is physical examination of the external genitalia.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics and Gynecology, "Amenorrhea" Section:
"In girls with primary amenorrhea and cyclic abdominal pain, perform an external genital exam to rule out obstructive anomalies (e.g., imperforate hymen or transverse vaginal septum). Examination should always precede imaging." MCCQE1 Objectives (Pediatrics > 78-3: Puberty and Menstrual Disorders):
"Candidates must evaluate delayed menarche with physical exam, including inspection of the genitalia to rule out anatomic obstruction." Pelvic ultrasound (D) is helpful but should follow physical exam. Radiography (B), hCG (C), and urinalysis (E) are not primary steps in evaluating amenorrhea with a mass.
NEW QUESTION # 217
A surgical clinic would like to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action report. The clinic has implemented a mandatory cultural safety course for all employees and ongoing faculty development that includes teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers and teaching sessions about harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and antiracism. Which one of the following steps would further the clinic's goal of responding to this report?
- A. Evaluate how the staff enjoyed the teaching session.
- B. Include trauma disclosure on the clinic's intake form.
- C. Display the cultural safety certificate in the waiting room.
- D. Provide clinic information in the languages spoken by the community.
Answer: D
Explanation:
Providing information in the patient's own language is a concrete way to improve access, cultural safety, and communication - key recommendations in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. It moves beyond symbolic gestures and supports equitable care.
Toronto Notes 2023 - ELOM, "Indigenous Health and Cultural Safety" Section:
"Cultural safety includes removing language barriers, engaging with Elders, and using patient-centered practices that respect Indigenous values. Communication in the patient's first language improves trust and outcomes." MCCQE1 Objectives (ELOM > 99-2: Cultural Safety and Health Equity):
"Candidates must apply the principles of culturally safe care including removing barriers to access and effective communication, as highlighted in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action." Evaluating session enjoyment (A) is not impactful. Certificates (C) are symbolic. Intake questions about trauma (D) must be done with appropriate context and safety - not as a formality.
NEW QUESTION # 218
A 6-year-old boy is brought to the Emergency Department with a 2-day history of a limp. On examination, he looks well, has a temperature of 38 °C and is able to weight-bear. His hip examination reveals mild decreased range of motion. Radiographs of his hip and pelvis show no abnormality. His C-reactive protein level is 8 mg
/L (< 6). Which one of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Trochanteric bursitis
- B. Osteomyelitis
- C. Septic arthritis
- D. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
- E. Transient synovitis
Answer: E
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
Transient synovitis is the most common cause of hip pain and limp in children aged 3-10 years. It is often preceded by a viral infection. Patients appear well, can often bear weight, and have only mild to moderate elevation in inflammatory markers. Radiographs are normal.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics, "Limping Child":
"Transient synovitis is benign and self-limiting. Presentation includes mild limp, low-grade fever, normal or slightly elevated CRP/ESR, and ability to bear weight." MCCQE1 Objectives (Pediatrics > 78-2: Musculoskeletal Disorders):
"Candidates must distinguish between transient synovitis and more serious causes of limping, such as septic arthritis." Septic arthritis (A) usually causes inability to bear weight and more significant fever and CRP elevation.
Osteomyelitis (B) typically presents with localized tenderness and systemic signs. Bursitis (D) is rare in young children. JIA (E) is chronic.
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NEW QUESTION # 219
A 6-year-old girl is found to have a blood pressure of 130/75 mm Hg. She was born prematurely at 32 weeks' gestation and required ventilation. There is a family history of hypertension in 3 grandparents. Clinical examination reveals a grade 1/6 mid-systolic murmur, no renal bruits, and femoral pulses are difficult to feel.
Which one of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Ventricular septal defect
- B. Reflux nephropathy
- C. Essential hypertension
- D. Aortic coarctation
- E. Renal artery thrombosis
Answer: D
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
The combination of upper extremity hypertension and weak femoral pulses is classic for aortic coarctation. A soft systolic murmur may be present. This condition often becomes apparent during routine screening in school-aged children.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Pediatrics / Cardiology:
"Coarctation of the aorta presents with upper limb hypertension, diminished femoral pulses, and sometimes a systolic murmur. BP discrepancy is key." MCCQE1 Objectives (Pediatrics > 78-1: Congenital Heart Disease):
"Candidates must recognize signs of aortic coarctation, including weak lower limb pulses and systemic hypertension in children." VSD (A) typically presents with a louder murmur. Reflux nephropathy (B) may cause hypertension but without femoral pulse discrepancy. Renal artery thrombosis (C) is rare. Essential hypertension (D) is less likely in this age group with these findings.
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NEW QUESTION # 220
A 45-year-old man presents to your family practice for follow-up because he has had repeated transient ischemic attacks and had been advised not to drive. During the interview, you find out that he is still driving.
He explains that he only drives to the grocery store and his wife, who also has a driver's license, is always a passenger with him. He insists he can drive. You think that he should no longer be driving a car. Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Physically take away his license.
- B. Refuse to treat him further unless he stops driving.
- C. Consult a neurologist to assess whether the patient is fit to drive.
- D. Discuss this further with him.
- E. Communicate your concerns to the motor vehicle licensing authority.
Answer: E
Explanation:
In most Canadian provinces and territories, physicians are legally obligated to report patients who pose a danger due to medical conditions affecting driving ability. Given the history of TIAs and continued unsafe driving, reporting is necessary for public safety.
Toronto Notes 2023 - ELOM, "Fitness to Drive" Section:
"Physicians must report to motor vehicle authorities if a patient poses a risk to public safety due to a medical condition. TIAs are considered reportable if they impair ability and the patient does not comply with driving restrictions." MCCQE1 Objectives (ELOM > 99-1: Medical Fitness and Reporting):
"Candidates must recognize situations requiring mandatory reporting of patients unfit to drive due to neurologic or other impairing conditions." You may still discuss with the patient (B), but this does not replace the duty to report. Physically taking the license (C) is illegal. Refusing care (D) is unethical. A neurologist (E) could be helpful but would delay action in a clear case.
NEW QUESTION # 221
A 20-year-old woman, gravida 0, para 0, presents with increased facial hair. Her periods are regular and moderate. Her BMI is 24, and her blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg. Which one of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Idiopathic hirsutism.
- B. Polycystic ovary disease.
- C. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumour.
- D. Adrenal hyperplasia.
- E. Hilar cell tumour.
Answer: A
Explanation:
Idiopathic hirsutism is the most likely diagnosis because this patient has isolated hirsutism with normal vital signs, normal BMI, and regular menstrual cycles , suggesting preserved ovulation and no clinically significant endocrine disturbance. MCCQE objectives emphasize that the most common causes of hirsutism are PCOS and idiopathic hirsutism; PCOS typically includes menstrual irregularity/oligo-ovulation and often metabolic features (overweight, insulin resistance), none of which are present here. Androgen-secreting ovarian tumors (hilar cell or Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors) usually cause rapid onset, severe hyperandrogenism and virilization (deepening voice, clitoromegaly, marked acne) and often disrupt menses-features not described. Nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia can present with hirsutism, but it more commonly associates with acne, infertility, or menstrual abnormalities and requires biochemical suspicion rather than being the "most likely" with normal cycles. Therefore, idiopathic hirsutism-often due to increased peripheral androgen sensitivity or local 5-alpha reductase activity-is the best fit.
NEW QUESTION # 222
A 35-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 0, aborta 3, presents with her male partner because she has been unable to conceive despite trying for more than 1 year. Her menstrual cycles have been absent for 9 months, and she has occasional mild cyclic pain. She has a medical history of 3 suction curettages. Her BMI is 24.
Investigation results are as follows:
Hysterosalpingogram: Obliterated uterine cavity, no tubal dye spill
Progesterone (midluteal): 48.0 nmol/L (16.4-59.0)
Partner's semen: All parameters normal
Which one of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Perimenopause
- B. Intrauterine synechiae
- C. Fibroids
- D. Hypothalamic insufficiency
- E. Polycystic ovary syndrome
Answer: B
Explanation:
This patient has secondary amenorrhea, infertility, and a history of multiple uterine curettages, which strongly points toward Asherman syndrome (intrauterine adhesions or synechiae). The hysterosalpingogram shows an obliterated uterine cavity and no tubal dye spill-classic for intrauterine synechiae. Her midluteal progesterone level is normal, indicating ovulation.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Gynecology, "Infertility" section:
"Asherman syndrome results from intrauterine adhesions due to curettage, leading to amenorrhea and infertility. HSG shows an obliterated or irregular uterine cavity." MCCQE1 Objectives (Gynecology > 82-1: Infertility):
"Candidates should evaluate secondary amenorrhea and interpret imaging such as hysterosalpingogram in the diagnosis of intrauterine abnormalities." Other options are ruled out by the presence of normal ovulation (rules out hypothalamic and PCOS) and by imaging (not suggestive of fibroids or perimenopause).
NEW QUESTION # 223
A 42-year-old man comes to your family practice. He has started seeing a reflexologist to help manage his chronic back pain. He presents to you a letter from the reflexologist outlining the weekly necessary treatments, each costing $300, and a list of blood tests for the patient to have done. The patient asks you to order the laboratory testing and send the results to his "other doctor." Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Report the reflexologist to the medical regulatory authority.
- B. Decline to order the tests but inquire further about his back pain.
- C. Tell your patient to stop seeing this practitioner.
- D. Report the reflexologist to the regulatory authority for alternative and complementary practitioners.
- E. Order the tests and arrange to send them to the reflexologist.
Answer: B
Explanation:
Physicians should order investigations only when clinically indicated based on their own assessment and an evidence-based differential diagnosis, not solely at the request of a non-physician practitioner. The appropriate next step is to decline to order the requested tests as written and perform (or arrange) a proper evaluation of the patient's chronic back pain, including red-flag screening, functional impact, and prior work- up/treatments. This aligns with MCCQE objectives on stewardship of health resources and professional accountability: unnecessary testing can cause harm (false positives, downstream procedures) and misuses publicly funded services. Sending results to a reflexologist as "other doctor" is also inappropriate without confirming the person's role, ensuring relevance to care, and obtaining appropriate patient consent for disclosure; even with consent, the physician should not facilitate non-indicated testing. Reporting (A/B) or directing the patient to stop (E) is premature; the initial focus should be patient-centred care, education about evidence-based options, and collaborative planning while respecting patient autonomy and addressing potential safety concerns.
NEW QUESTION # 224
A 63-year-old man presents to the office with a 2-year history of episodic swallowing problems that have been increasing in frequency. He states that food seems to stick in his throat, and these episodes are often associated with coughing or regurgitating undigested food. Physical examination reveals that the patient has halitosis; otherwise, findings are normal. Which one of the following is the best next step to confirm the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Barium swallow.
- B. Endoscopy.
- C. 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring.
- D. Trial of a proton pump inhibitor.
- E. Computed tomography of the chest.
Answer: A
Explanation:
This presentation is classic for Zenker diverticulum , characterized by progressive dysphagia, regurgitation of undigested food, coughing, and halitosis due to food retention in a pharyngoesophageal pouch. Symptoms are chronic and episodic, often involving regurgitation hours after eating. MCCQE objectives emphasize selecting the safest and most appropriate diagnostic test. The best initial test is a barium swallow (contrast esophagram)
, which clearly visualizes the posterior outpouching above the upper esophageal sphincter.
Endoscopy is not the first step because there is a risk of perforation if a large diverticulum is present. pH monitoring and PPI trials are used for gastroesophageal reflux disease, which does not explain regurgitation of undigested food and halitosis. CT chest is unnecessary for diagnosis.
Therefore, a barium swallow is the safest and most informative investigation to confirm suspected Zenker diverticulum before considering surgical or endoscopic management.
NEW QUESTION # 225
A 40-year-old woman presents to your clinic for follow-up regarding her major depressive disorder, which is being treated with the starting dosage of escitalopram. Most of her symptoms have now improved. However, she has noted anorgasmia since taking this medication. This has significantly affected her relationship with her wife. Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Switch escitalopram to venlafaxine
- B. Add bupropion
- C. Increase the patient's dosage of escitalopram
- D. Maintain the current medication
Answer: B
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
Sexual dysfunction, including anorgasmia, is a common side effect of SSRIs like escitalopram. Bupropion, a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, has minimal sexual side effects and can be safely added to mitigate this issue while preserving the antidepressant effect.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Psychiatry / Pharmacology:
"SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction can be managed by dose reduction, switching agents, or adding bupropion." MCCQE1 Objectives (Psychiatry > 71-1: Depressive Disorders):
"Candidates should be able to address side effects of antidepressants, including sexual dysfunction, and adjust therapy appropriately." Increasing the dose (A) may worsen sexual dysfunction. Venlafaxine (B), an SNRI, also has sexual side effects. D (no change) does not address the patient's concern.
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NEW QUESTION # 226
A 48-year-old woman presents with a 2-year history of regular, heavy menstrual flow. She has a BMI of 54, poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea. Laboratory results are as follows:
Hemoglobin: 82 g/L (123-157)
Ferritin: 6 µg/L (11-307)
Endometrial biopsy: Absence of hyperplasia or malignancy
Transvaginal ultrasound:
* Uterus: 12 cm × 8.2 cm × 6 cm
* Intramural fibroids
* Endometrial thickness: 14 mm
* Ovaries: Normal
Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system
- B. Cyclic medroxyprogesterone
- C. Hysterectomy
- D. Continuous combined oral contraception
Answer: A
Explanation:
The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) is the first-line treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding, particularly in women with risk factors for endometrial hyperplasia and contraindications to systemic hormones (e.g., morbid obesity, diabetes, OSA).
Toronto Notes 2023 - Gynecology, "Abnormal Uterine Bleeding" Section:
"The LNG-IUS is highly effective in reducing menstrual bleeding and improving hemoglobin levels. It is particularly recommended in women with obesity, chronic anovulation, or contraindications to estrogen." MCCQE1 Objectives (Obstetrics and Gynecology > 82-1: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding):
"Candidates must consider the LNG-IUS as a preferred non-surgical treatment for chronic heavy menstrual bleeding when endometrial pathology has been excluded." Oral contraceptives (C) are not first-line in morbid obesity due to increased thromboembolic risk. Cyclic medroxyprogesterone (D) is less effective than LNG-IUS. Hysterectomy (A) is definitive but should follow failure of conservative therapy.
NEW QUESTION # 227
You are the emergency physician on duty in a rural hospital when heavy rains in the community cause a large landslide. There are multiple casualties expected to arrive in the emergency department. Your colleague has heard about the incident and arrives to help. Which one of the following is the best next step?
- A. Send your colleague to set up an emergency type O blood bank collecting unit
- B. Ask your colleague to help triage incoming patients in the emergency department
- C. Ask your colleague to handle media inquiries
- D. Send your colleague to the affected area to evaluate the health risks involved
Answer: B
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
During mass casualty incidents, effective triage is essential to optimize care delivery. A trained physician is best used in triage or direct care. Triage is the foundation of disaster management.
Toronto Notes 2023 - Public Health / Disaster Medicine:
"In disaster response, trained healthcare providers should be deployed to triage and stabilize patients in emergency departments." MCCQE1 Objectives (Public Health > 65-1: Disaster Response):
"Candidates must understand principles of mass casualty management and assign appropriate roles during triage and care delivery." Media (D) and logistics (A, C) are secondary roles. Triage and direct care take priority.
NEW QUESTION # 228
Which one of the following bodies decides whether a physician is permitted to practise medicine in a province or territory?
- A. The provincial or territorial Ministry of Health
- B. The board of the hospital or health region where the physician wants to practise
- C. The provincial or territorial medical licensing authority
- D. The provincial or territorial medical association
- E. The College of Family Physicians of Canada or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Answer: C
Explanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
The authority to license and regulate physicians to practise medicine is held by the medical regulatory colleges in each province or territory (e.g., CPSO in Ontario, CPSBC in BC).
MCC Objectives (ELOM > 90-1: Medical Regulation in Canada):
"Licensure to practise medicine is granted by the provincial or territorial medical regulatory authority." Toronto Notes 2023 - Ethics and Canadian Health Care System:
"Medical regulatory colleges determine physician licensure and discipline in each jurisdiction." The CFPC/RCPSC (C) certify physicians, not license them. Ministries of Health (A) oversee health policy, not licensing. Associations (E) advocate for physicians but do not regulate. Hospital boards (B) grant privileges, not licenses.
NEW QUESTION # 229
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