PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which conditions are included in the differential diagnoses for heartburn and dyspepsia?

1. Esophageal cancer, pyloric stenosis

2. Hiatal hernia, GERD, PUD

3. Irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease

4. Diverticulitis, pancreatitis

The correct answer is: Hiatal hernia, GERD, PUD

The correct choice encompasses conditions that are commonly associated with heartburn and dyspepsia, which are both symptoms relating to the digestive tract. Hiatal hernia is a condition where a portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, potentially causing symptoms like heartburn due to reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by chronic acid reflux, causing both heartburn and dyspeptic symptoms. Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) refers to ulcers that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, often presenting with similar symptoms of pain and discomfort, and can lead to heartburn if acid production is involved. These conditions are frequently encountered in clinical practice when evaluating patients presenting with heartburn and dyspepsia, making them integral to the differential diagnosis. In contrast, other options do not primarily correlate with heartburn and dyspeptic symptoms. Esophageal cancer and pyloric stenosis do not commonly present with heartburn but rather with more severe swallowing difficulties or gastric outlet obstruction. Irritable bowel syndrome and celiac disease are more associated with bowel symptoms rather than upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Likewise, diverticulitis and pancreatitis are conditions that