skip to main content

Anorexia nervosa — USMLE Step 2 CK MCQ

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

HardPsychiatryAnorexia nervosaUSMLE Step 2 CK

A 38-year-old man develops partial Horner syndrome and transient right-arm weakness after sudden left-sided neck pain during weightlifting. CTA shows extracranial left internal carotid artery dissection without intracranial hemorrhage. His deficits have resolved. Which secondary-prevention plan is most appropriate?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Use antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy for 3-6 months

Painful partial Horner syndrome with cerebral ischemic symptoms is classic for carotid dissection. AHA guidance recommends individualized antithrombotic therapy, using an antiplatelet or anticoagulant strategy, generally for 3 to 6 months. Routine stenting or endarterectomy is unnecessary when symptoms stabilize and flow is acceptable; intervention is reserved for selected recurrent ischemia or other complications. Indefinite dual antiplatelet therapy increases bleeding without established benefit, while withholding therapy leaves thromboembolic risk untreated.

Reference: American Heart Association scientific statement: Treatment and outcomes of cervical artery dissection in adults (PubMed). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299330/