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Panic attack after exclusion of instability — ABEM Board MCQ

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EasyPsychiatric emergenciesPanic attack after exclusion of instabilityABEM Board

A 22-year-old woman arrives with sudden chest tightness and tingling around the mouth during an exam. Triage acuity is ESI 3; BP 126/72 mm Hg, HR 104/min, RR 24/min, SpO2 99%. ECG, glucose, and pregnancy test are normal. Symptoms resolve with reassurance. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

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Correct answer: B — Panic attack

Acute fear with hyperventilation symptoms and normal focused ED evaluation is consistent with panic attack, while dangerous mimics should be considered first.

Reference: ACEP psychiatric emergency guidance