USMLE · Question #508
A 25-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a 6-day history of fever, severe muscle pain, and diffuse, painful swelling of his neck, underarms, and groin area. The symptoms beg
The correct answer is E. Tetrahydrofolate reductase. See the full explanation below for the reasoning.
Question
A 25-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a 6-day history of fever, severe muscle pain, and diffuse, painful swelling of his neck, underarms, and groin area. The symptoms began after returning from a camping trip in New Mexico. He appears ill and lethargic and can barely answer questions. His temperature is 39.2°C (102.5°F), pulse is 120/min, respirations are 22/min, and blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg. Physical examination shows generalized scattered black maculae. Examination of the right upper extremity shows an erythematous, solid, tender mass on the underside of the upper extremity just above the elbow; the mass is draining blood and necrotic material. The most effective antibiotic for this patient's disorder will interfere with which of the following cellular processes or enzymes?
Options
- ACell wall synthesis
- BDNA helicase
- CGlucuronosyltransferase
- DProteasomal assembly
- ETetrahydrofolate reductase
How the community answered
(33 responses)- A3% (1)
- C6% (2)
- D9% (3)
- E82% (27)
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