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Septic arthritis — RCPSC IM MCQ

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HardInfectious DiseasesSeptic arthritisRCPSC IM

A patient with acute severe ulcerative colitis has received IV corticosteroids for three days. Stool testing is negative, CRP remains high and stool frequency is unchanged. What next management principle is appropriate?

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

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Correct answer: C — Make a rescue or colectomy decision with colorectal input

Explanation lettering: E = shown as C · C = shown as D · D = shown as E

E is correct: steroid-refractory acute severe UC requires timely rescue therapy assessment and early surgical involvement. A delays a high-risk decision. B can be dangerous. C under-treats. D is not definitive rescue therapy.

Reference: Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, UC clinical pathway: https://crohnsandcolitis.ca/support-for-you/Resources-for-Healthcare-Providers/Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease-Clinical-Care-Pathways/Therapy-decision-tree-Ulcerative-colitis