Question Easy:
A 30-year-old woman presents to the GP with itchy, red eyes and a clear, watery discharge. She reports similar symptoms several times in the past, especially during spring. What is the most likely diagnosis? 🌸
A) Bacterial conjunctivitis
B) Viral conjunctivitis
C) Allergic conjunctivitis
D) Uveitis
E) Acute angle-closure glaucoma
Question Medium:
A 45-year-old man complains of gradually decreasing hearing in his right ear over the past year. He notes occasional tinnitus and imbalance. Otoscopy does not reveal any abnormalities. An audiogram shows unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. What is the most likely diagnosis? 🎧
A) Otosclerosis
B) Acoustic neuroma
C) Meniere’s disease
D) Chronic otitis media
E) Presbycusis
Question Hard:
A 60-year-old man presents with sudden loss of vision in his left eye. He describes it as a “curtain coming down” and has also noticed a few flashes of light and floaters over the past week. He has a history of myopia. What is the most likely diagnosis? 👁
A) Retinal detachment
B) Central retinal vein occlusion
C) Vitreous haemorrhage
D) Acute anterior uveitis
E) Optic neuritis
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer:
C) Allergic conjunctivitis
Question Easy Explanation:
The symptoms and seasonal occurrence are suggestive of allergic conjunctivitis, which often presents with itchy eyes and a clear, watery discharge. According to NICE guidelines, management includes avoiding allergens and using antihistamine eye drops.
Question Medium Answer:
B) Acoustic neuroma
Question Medium Explanation:
Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss in combination with tinnitus and balance problems suggests an acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma). According to NHS guidance, this requires further investigation through MRI to visualize the tumor and guide intervention.
Question Hard Answer:
A) Retinal detachment
Question Hard Explanation:
The “curtain coming down” description, along with flashes of light and floaters, is characteristic of retinal detachment. Immediate referral to an ophthalmologist is essential, as per NICE guidelines, to prevent permanent vision loss.
Medical fact of the day:
Did you know that the inner ear not only plays a crucial role in hearing but is also vital for balance? The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps us maintain our equilibrium and spatial orientation.
Quote of the day:
“In the relentless march of medicine, remember the kindness that heals is just as powerful as the science that cures.” 🌟