skip to main content

COPD exacerbation prevention — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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

ModerateInternal Medicine (chronic management)COPD exacerbation preventionUSMLE Step 3

A 69-year-old man with COPD returns after two exacerbations requiring prednisone in the past year. He uses a long-acting beta agonist and long-acting muscarinic antagonist. Blood eosinophil count is 320/microL. He rinses his mouth after inhalers. Which of the following would you recommend at the follow-up visit?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Add inhaled corticosteroid therapy

In COPD with frequent exacerbations and elevated eosinophils, adding inhaled corticosteroid to dual bronchodilator therapy can reduce exacerbations.

Reference: GOLD COPD Report