A 31-Year-Old Man Is Brought to the Emergency Department by His

question 966

Multiple Choice

A 31-year-old man is brought to the emergency department by his friends due to 2 weeks of headaches and progressive confusion.  His friends note that he has also been aggressive and inappropriately suspicious, which is not typical for him.  The patient is a flight attendant and frequently works on international flights.  He has a history of HIV infection and sometimes skips antiretroviral therapy when he travels.  His friends are unsure if he takes other prophylactic medications.  Temperature is 38.6 C (101.5 F) , blood pressure is 118/80 mm Hg, and pulse is 102/min.  The patient appears unkempt and is disoriented.  Neurologic examination shows ataxia and right-sided hemiparesis.  Brain MRI findings are shown in the image below. Which of the following would have most likely prevented this patient's condition?

• A)Acyclovir
• B)Albendazole
• C)Fluconazole
• D)Ganciclovir
• E)Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

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Definitions:

Chunking

A cognitive strategy that involves breaking down information into smaller, manageable units, making it easier to process and remember.

Durable Memory

A type of long-term memory known for its strength and longevity, capable of lasting years or even an entire lifetime.

Structural Encoding

The process of encoding sensory input that has significant recognizable features.

Visualizing

Visualizing involves forming mental images or scenarios in the mind's eye, often used as a cognitive strategy for problem-solving, planning, or enhancing performance.