06/07/2025 – Haem and Vascular

Question Easy:
A patient presents with fatigue, pallor, and spoon-shaped nails. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Vitamin B12 deficiency
B) Iron deficiency anemia
C) Folate deficiency
D) Thalassemia
E) Sickle cell disease

Question Medium:
A 56-year-old man is scheduled for abdominal surgery and has a history of DVT. According to NICE guidelines, which agent is most appropriate for DVT prophylaxis in this patient?
A) Aspirin
B) Unfractionated heparin
C) Low molecular weight heparin
D) Warfarin
E) Dabigatran

Question Hard:
A 30-year-old woman presents with recurrent, painful mouth ulcers, genital ulcers, and uveitis. Which of the following conditions is most likely?
A) Systemic lupus erythematosus
B) Bechet’s disease
C) Crohn’s disease
D) Sjögren’s syndrome
E) Reactive arthritis

Explanations & Answers:

Question Easy Answer:
B) Iron deficiency anemia

Question Easy Explanation:
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common cause of microcytic anemia, often presenting with fatigue, pallor, and spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia) due to decreased hemoglobin synthesis. NICE guidelines recommend checking serum ferritin to confirm the diagnosis. 🍏

Question Medium Answer:
C) Low molecular weight heparin

Question Medium Explanation:
NICE guidelines suggest using low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for DVT prophylaxis in patients undergoing surgery, especially in those with a history of thromboembolism. LMWH is effective and has a favorable safety profile compared to unfractionated heparin. 📋

Question Hard Answer:
B) Bechet’s disease

Question Hard Explanation:
Behçet’s disease is a rare, chronic condition that is characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcers, as well as uveitis. It can also present with skin lesions and arthritis. The condition is more common in individuals from the Mediterranean and the Far East. 🦠

Medical fact of the day:
Did you know that deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a major preventable cause of hospital-related morbidity and mortality? The NHS highlights the importance of early mobilization and prophylactic anticoagulation to mitigate this risk in hospitalized patients.

Quote of the day:
“In the vast ocean of medicine, compassion remains the lighthouse guiding us safely to shore.” 🏥