Clinical neurology presentations and management decisions tested on USMLE Step 2 CK, distinct from the Step 1 tract-and-lesion focus of USMLE Neuro.
40 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the time window for IV tPA administration in acute ischemic stroke from symptom onset?
- 4.5 hours
- What is the first imaging study obtained in a patient with suspected acute ischemic stroke?
- Noncontrast CT scan of the head
- Name one absolute contraindication to giving IV tPA in acute ischemic stroke.
- Active internal bleeding (or a recent intracranial hemorrhage)
- Mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion stroke can be performed up to ____ hours after last known well in carefully selected patients.
- 24
- What clinical scoring system estimates short-term stroke risk after a TIA?
- ABCD2 score
- What is the first-line drug class for terminating status epilepticus?
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., IV lorazepam)
- If benzodiazepines fail to stop status epilepticus, what class of agent is given next?
- An antiepileptic load such as IV fosphenytoin
- What is the first-line treatment for Bell's palsy started within 72 hours of symptom onset?
- Oral corticosteroids
- A facial droop that spares the forehead (patient can still wrinkle it) suggests a lesion where?
- Central, an upper motor neuron lesion such as stroke
- What antibody test is most specific for diagnosing myasthenia gravis?
- Acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody
- What bedside test transiently improves ptosis in myasthenia gravis?
- Ice pack test
- What pulmonary function measurement guides the decision to intubate in a myasthenic crisis?
- Forced vital capacity (FVC)
- What are the two first-line treatments for Guillain-Barre syndrome?
- IVIG or plasmapheresis
- Why is respiratory function closely monitored in Guillain-Barre syndrome?
- Ascending paralysis can progress to respiratory failure needing mechanical ventilation
- What MRI finding pattern is required to diagnose multiple sclerosis?
- Lesions disseminated in time and space