skip to main content

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyRespiratoryObstructive Sleep ApnoeaRACP Adult Medicine

A 50-year-old man with obstructive sleep apnoea presents with excessive daytime somnolence, loud snoring with witnessed apnoeas, and an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score of 16. BMI is 38 kg/m². Home sleep study shows an AHI of 35/hr. What is the most appropriate first-line treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — CPAP therapy

Moderate-to-severe OSA (AHI ≥15/hr) with symptoms requires CPAP as first-line treatment. CPAP maintains upper airway patency, eliminating apnoeas and hypopnoeas. Concurrent weight loss is strongly recommended (may reduce or eliminate the need for CPAP if sufficient weight loss achieved). Mandibular advancement devices are second-line for mild-moderate OSA.

Reference: Australasian Sleep Association – 2024 – OSA Guidelines; AASM 2024