skip to main content

Asthma controller step-up — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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

ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareAsthma controller step-upUSMLE Step 3

A 34-year-old woman with asthma returns after using albuterol most days for cough and wheeze over the past month. She wakes with symptoms twice weekly. Spirometry shows reversible airflow obstruction. She has no fever and uses inhaler technique correctly. 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: A — Add inhaled corticosteroid-containing controller therapy

Frequent symptoms and nighttime awakening indicate persistent asthma requiring inhaled corticosteroid-containing controller therapy rather than rescue inhaler monotherapy.

Reference: GINA asthma strategy