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Parkinson disease — USMLE Step 2 CK MCQ

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ModerateInternal MedicineParkinson diseaseUSMLE Step 2 CK

A 44-year-old White woman comes to the emergency department because of neurologic symptoms. History and focused examination are notable for resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and shuffling gait. Temperature is 98.6°F (37.0°C), blood pressure is 126/78 mmHg, pulse is 84/min, respirations are 16/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Physical examination confirms the key finding and shows no unrelated abnormality that would better explain the presentation. Focused laboratory studies and initial testing support the clinical pattern described in the stem. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Parkinson disease

The vignette describes Parkinson disease, supported by resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and shuffling gait. Parkinson disease is the single best answer because it matches the diagnostic or management priority in this clinical setting. The other choices are plausible alternatives in related presentations, but they do not best fit the timing, findings, and guideline-directed approach described here.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/#stage-9-order-20