(2026) Actual Q&A PDF | Wilkes
1. In the context of renal pathophysiology, which structure is primarily
responsible for the filtration of blood plasma?
A) The loop of Henle
B) The glomerulus
C) The collecting duct
D) The proximal convoluted tubule
Correct Answer: The glomerulus
Rationale: The glomerulus is a network of capillaries located within
Bowman's capsule and is the site of initial plasma filtration. It allows
water, electrolytes, and small molecules to pass into the renal tubule
while retaining blood cells and large proteins. The loop of Henle and
collecting duct are involved in concentration and reabsorption, not initial
filtration.
2. A 3-year-old child presents with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea after
attending a daycare where several children are ill. Which diagnosis is most
likely?
A) Hepatitis A
B) Hepatitis B
C) Hepatitis C
D) Cirrhosis
Correct Answer: Hepatitis A
Rationale: Hepatitis A is transmitted via the fecal-oral route and is
common in daycare settings where hygiene practices may be suboptimal.
It typically causes acute, self-limited illness with nausea, vomiting, and
,diarrhea. Hepatitis B and C are bloodborne, and cirrhosis is a chronic
condition.
3. What is the primary pathophysiological mechanism of cystitis?
A) Autoimmune destruction of the bladder mucosa
B) Bacterial infection of the bladder, most commonly by Escherichia coli
C) Viral infection of the renal pelvis
D) Obstruction of the urethra by a kidney stone
Correct Answer: Bacterial infection of the bladder, most commonly
by Escherichia coli
Rationale: Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, most often
caused by bacterial infection. Escherichia coli is the most common
pathogen, accounting for the majority of cases. It typically presents with
frequency, urgency, dysuria, and lower abdominal discomfort.
4. A patient is diagnosed with a kidney stone composed of magnesium,
ammonium, and phosphate. What type of urinary calculus is this?
A) Calcium oxalate
B) Struvite
C) Uric acid
D) Cystine
Correct Answer: Struvite
Rationale: Struvite stones are composed of magnesium, ammonium,
and phosphate. They are also known as infection stones because they are
associated with urease-producing bacteria such as Proteus and Klebsiella.
They are more common in women and individuals with recurrent urinary
tract infections.
, 5. Which statement regarding renal cell carcinoma is correct?
A) It is more common in women than in men
B) Symptoms include painless hematuria
C) It is always associated with polycythemia
D) It is a benign tumor of the kidney
Correct Answer: Symptoms include painless hematuria
Rationale: Renal cell carcinoma is the most common type of kidney
cancer in adults. Painless hematuria is the most common presenting
symptom. The classic triad of hematuria, flank pain, and a palpable
abdominal mass is a late finding. It is more common in men and can be
associated with paraneoplastic syndromes.
6. A patient who reports abdominal and back pain has been diagnosed
with bacteria in the urine. What is the appropriate term for involvement of
the upper urinary tract that is likely to cause such symptoms?
A) Cystitis
B) Pyelonephritis
C) Urethritis
D) Prostatitis
Correct Answer: Pyelonephritis
Rationale: Pyelonephritis is an infection of the renal pelvis and kidney,
constituting an upper urinary tract infection. It typically presents with
fever, chills, flank pain, and costovertebral angle tenderness, along with
urinary symptoms. Cystitis is a lower urinary tract infection limited to the
bladder.
7. With which bacteria is acute glomerulonephritis most commonly
associated?