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Anterior cruciate ligament tear — ABFM Board MCQ

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HardMusculoskeletal/Sports medicineAnterior cruciate ligament tearABFM Board

A 17-year-old basketball player lands awkwardly and hears a pop in the knee. There is rapid swelling within 2 hours, positive Lachman test, and radiographs show no fracture. 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: C — Anterior cruciate ligament tear

A pop with rapid hemarthrosis after pivoting injury and positive Lachman test is typical of anterior cruciate ligament rupture. MRI can confirm and guide orthopedic management.

Reference: AAOS Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Guideline