NEET MDS Shorts
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General MedicineCeruloplasmin is a protein synthesized in the liver that primarily functions to transport and regulate the levels of copper in the bloodstream. It is not directly involved in blood clotting or inflammation.
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General Medicine
The nephrotic syndrome is characterized by hypoalbuminemia, with serum albumin levels typically less than 3 g/dL due to the loss of albumin in the urine.
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General Medicine
Although H. pylori infection can be associated with elevated gastrin levels, it typically presents with normal or elevated gastric acid production and predominantly antral gastritis, which increases the risk of duodenal ulcers.
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General Medicine
E. coli O157:H7 is the most commonly identified serotype of EHEC and is associated with outbreaks related to the consumption of inadequately cooked ground beef, milk, and vegetables. It produces Shiga-like toxins, which can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome.
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General MedicineProtein C is a vitamin K-dependent plasma protein that acts as an anticoagulant. Upon activation, it forms a complex with protein S and inhibits factor Xa and thrombin, thereby preventing excessive clot formation and promoting clot dissolution.
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General MedicineCystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and other organs, leading to respiratory infections and digestive issues, including steatorrhoea and electrolyte imbalances.
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General MedicineParahemophilia is a congenital deficiency of factor V, which is less severe than Hemophilia A or B. It leads to a mild bleeding diathesis. Factor XII deficiency is associated with Hageman trait, which typically does not cause a significant bleeding tendency.
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General MedicinePulsus alternans is characterized by alternating strong and weak heartbeats
and is often associated with severe heart conditions, including mitral
incompetence. It indicates significant cardiac dysfunction.
Signs of Pulsus Alternans
Alternating Pulse Amplitude:
The most defining characteristic of pulsus alternans is the
alternating pattern of pulse strength. When palpating the radial pulse,
a healthcare provider will notice that one beat is strong (high
amplitude) and the next is weak (low amplitude).
Irregular Pulse Rhythm:
While the rhythm may appear regular, the variation in amplitude can
create an irregular sensation when palpating the pulse.
Blood Pressure Variability:
Blood pressure readings may also show variability, with alternating
high and low readings corresponding to the strong and weak beats.
Heart Sounds:
On auscultation, the heart sounds may also reflect this alternation,
with variations in the intensity of the heart sounds corresponding to
the pulse amplitude.
Symptoms Associated with Pulsus Alternans
Pulsus alternans itself is a sign rather than a symptom, but it is often
associated with symptoms of underlying cardiac dysfunction, including:
Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea):
Fatigue:
Palpitations:
Patients may report feeling their heart racing or irregular
heartbeats, which can be distressing.
Edema:
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen may occur due to fluid
retention associated with heart failure.
Chest Pain or Discomfort:
Some patients may experience chest pain or discomfort, particularly
if there is underlying ischemic heart disease.
Cough:
A persistent cough, especially when lying down, may occur due to
pulmonary congestion.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness:
Patients may feel dizzy or lightheaded, particularly when standing
up (orthostatic hypotension) due to fluctuating blood pressure.