Daily Quad Quiz 6

Which finding is not consistent with the typical clinical presentation of Down syndrome?

• transverse palmar crease

• • 
    elf-like facial features

• epicanthic folds

• hypotonia

Answer explanation

Elf-like facial features are not a common physical characteristic of Down syndrome and instead are characteristic of Williams syndrome. The other options are common with Down syndrome in addition to a flat nasal bridge, small mouth, upward slanting palpebral fissures, and excessive skin at the nape of the neck.

What is the best method to facilitate elbow extension in a patient with hemiplegia?

• 
  by turning the head to the affected side

• • 
    by turning the head to the uninvolved side

• by extending the lower extremities

• • 
    by flexing the lower extremities

Answer explanation

The asymmetrical tonic neck reflex (ATNR) produces extension of the affected upper extremity when the patient’s head is turned toward the affected side. This reflex may be present following a CVA and can assist to extend the affected elbow.

Atrophy of the thenar eminence and the first and second lumbricals could result from:

• ulnar neuritis

• carpal tunnel syndrome

• 
  compression of the radial nerve

• • 
    disruption of the anterior interosseus nerve

Answer explanation

Advanced carpal tunnel syndrome can result in severe compression of the median nerve resulting in atrophy of the muscles innervated by the median nerve distal to the wrist.

Which is the most common type of stroke?

• • 
    thrombotic

• transient ischemic attack

• hemorrhagic

• • 
    ischemic

Answer explanation

An ischemic stroke occurs when a clot blocks or impairs the flow of blood to the brain, depriving the brain of essential nutrients and oxygen. Ischemic strokes account for a very high percentage of all strokes

Which disease is characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons?

• Parkinson’s disease

• 
  amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

• • 
    multiple sclerosis

• • 
    Guillain-Barre syndrome

Answer explanation

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rapidly progressive, fatal neurological disease characterized by the gradual degeneration and death of the upper and lower motor neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscles.