Infectious Disease, NEET PG & INI-CET Pediatrics MCQs

Explanation

Koplik spots — white spots on an erythematous buccal mucosa — are pathognomonic of measles and appear before the rash. Measles presents with fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and a descending maculopapular rash.

Explanation

Pneumonia, often secondary bacterial, is the leading cause of death in measles. Other complications include diarrhoea, otitis media, acute encephalitis, and the rare late complication subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE).

Explanation

Bordetella pertussis causes whooping cough — paroxysmal coughing with an inspiratory whoop and post-tussive vomiting. It is dangerous in young infants and is prevented by the DPT vaccine.

Explanation

Diphtheria produces a grey, adherent pseudomembrane over the tonsils and pharynx that bleeds when removed, with possible airway obstruction and toxin-mediated myocarditis. Treatment is antitoxin plus antibiotics; the DPT vaccine prevents it.

Explanation

Respiratory syncytial virus is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in infants under 2 years, presenting with coryza, wheeze, and respiratory distress. Management is largely supportive with oxygen and hydration.

Explanation

Croup (viral laryngotracheobronchitis, usually parainfluenza) causes a barking cough, inspiratory stridor, and hoarseness. It is managed with corticosteroids and, if severe, nebulised adrenaline.

Explanation

A simple febrile seizure is generalised, brief (under 15 minutes), and does not recur within 24 hours, occurring with fever in children aged 6 months to 5 years. It is usually benign and does not itself constitute epilepsy.