Rosh Pediatrics Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by recurrent episodes of coughing, sinus infections, and foul-smelling stools in a young child?

1. Asthma exacerbation

2. Cystic fibrosis

3. Hirschsprung disease

4. Atopic dermatitis

The correct answer is: Cystic fibrosis

The scenario described aligns with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems. Children with cystic fibrosis often experience recurrent respiratory infections due to thick, sticky mucus that clogs the airways, leading to persistent cough and difficulty breathing. This thick mucus can also cause sinus infections, as it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. In addition to respiratory symptoms, cystic fibrosis affects the digestive tract. The condition can block the pancreatic ducts, preventing digestive enzymes from reaching the intestines. This leads to malabsorption of nutrients, resulting in foul-smelling, greasy stools known as steatorrhea. The combination of respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms is characteristic of cystic fibrosis, making it the correct choice for this question. The other conditions mentioned do not present with this specific combination of symptoms. Asthma exacerbation primarily involves wheezing, shortness of breath, and cough but typically does not cause foul-smelling stools or sinus infections as prominent features. Hirschsprung disease is associated with bowel obstruction and constipation, and while it may involve stool issues, it does not relate to the respiratory symptoms mentioned. Atopic dermatitis is primarily a skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, and does not typically include coughing or gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore