Skeletal Dysplasias of the Spine - Arab Board MCQ Prep
Comprehensive 100-Question Exam
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Question 1
A 4-year-old child with Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDC) is scheduled for a femoral osteotomy. What is the most critical preoperative assessment required for this patient regarding the spine?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Patients with SEDC frequently have odontoid hypoplasia and ligamentous laxity, leading to atlantoaxial instability. Preoperative cervical spine clearance with flexion-extension views is mandatory before any surgical procedure requiring intubation to prevent catastrophic spinal cord injury.
Question 2
In patients with Achondroplasia, which of the following radiographic findings is characteristic of the lumbar spine on an AP view?
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
A hallmark of Achondroplasia is the narrowing of the interpedicular distance as one moves caudally in the lumbar spine. In a normal spine, this distance increases. This narrowing, combined with short pedicles, contributes to significant spinal stenosis.
Question 3
A 6-year-old boy with Morquio Syndrome (MPS IV) presents with progressive difficulty walking and hyperreflexia. What is the primary biochemical defect responsible for this condition?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Morquio Syndrome (MPS IV) is caused by a deficiency in GALNS, leading to the accumulation of keratan sulfate. This results in odontoid hypoplasia and ligamentous laxity, often causing cervical myelopathy.
Question 4
Which of the following skeletal dysplasias is most strongly associated with severe cervical kyphosis in infancy that may spontaneously resolve?
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
Diastrophic dysplasia is characterized by severe cervical kyphosis in early childhood. While many cases resolve spontaneously as the child grows, some require bracing or surgery if neurological deficits develop.
Question 5
A patient with Kniest Dysplasia is being evaluated. Beyond the spinal manifestations of platyspondyly and kyphoscoliosis, which extra-skeletal finding is most common?
Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Kniest Dysplasia is a type II collagenopathy. Similar to SEDC and Stickler syndrome, it is highly associated with ocular issues, specifically high myopia and a significant risk of retinal detachment.
Question 6
Regarding the surgical management of spinal stenosis in Achondroplasia, which statement is most accurate?
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
Due to the global nature of the stenosis (short pedicles, thickened laminae, and narrow canal), wide decompression (laminectomy and often partial facetectomy/pediculectomy) over multiple levels is typically necessary to achieve adequate neural relief.
Question 7
Pseudoachondroplasia is distinguished from Achondroplasia by which of the following clinical features?
Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Unlike Achondroplasia, patients with Pseudoachondroplasia have a normal facial appearance (no frontal bossing or midface hypoplasia). It is caused by a mutation in COMP (Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein) and is not usually evident at birth.
Question 8
In Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Tarda (SED Tarda), what is the typical inheritance pattern and timing of presentation?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
SED Tarda is typically an X-linked recessive condition (mutations in TRAPPC2). It presents later than the congenital form, usually between ages 5 and 10, with trunk shortening and back pain due to platyspondyly.
Question 9
An infant with Achondroplasia presents with central apnea and hypertonia. What is the most likely anatomical cause?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Foramen magnum stenosis is a serious complication in infants with achondroplasia, potentially leading to compression of the cervicomedullary junction, resulting in apnea, quadriparesis, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Question 10
Which of the following is a characteristic radiographic feature of the vertebrae in Morquio Syndrome?
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
In Morquio Syndrome, the vertebrae typically show platyspondyly (flattening) with a characteristic central anterior beak. This differs from Hurler syndrome, where the beak is usually at the inferior aspect of the vertebral body (inferior beaking).
Question 11
A 5-year-old boy presents with short-trunk dwarfism, a barrel-shaped chest, and severe coxa vara. Radiographs reveal platyspondyly and delayed ossification of the femoral heads. Genetic testing confirms a mutation in the COL2A1 gene. What is the most critical cervical spine abnormality associated with this condition?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
The patient has Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia (SED) congenita, which is caused by a mutation in the COL2A1 gene (Type II collagen). A hallmark of this condition is odontoid hypoplasia, which leads to atlantoaxial instability. This is a critical finding as it poses a significant risk for cervical myelopathy and requires close monitoring or prophylactic stabilization.
Question 12
In patients with Morquio Syndrome (Mucopolysaccharidosis IV), which specific substance is found in excess in the urine due to a deficiency of N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase?
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
Morquio Syndrome (MPS IV) is characterized by the accumulation of Keratan sulfate. Unlike other mucopolysaccharidoses, Morquio syndrome is notable for significant skeletal involvement (platyspondyly, odontoid hypoplasia) and ligamentous laxity, but typically presents with normal intelligence.
Question 13
A 12-year-old male with Achondroplasia presents with progressive neurogenic claudication and lower extremity weakness. Which radiographic finding is most characteristic of the lumbar spine in this patient?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
In Achondroplasia, the interpedicular distance decreases as one moves caudally (from L1 to L5), which is the opposite of normal anatomy. Combined with short, thick pedicles and thickened laminae, this leads to significant congenital spinal stenosis, often requiring multi-level decompression.
Question 14
A neonate is born with 'cauliflower ears,' a 'hitchhiker thumb,' and severe clubfeet. Radiographs show a progressive cervical kyphosis. Which gene mutation is responsible for this skeletal dysplasia?
Explanation
Correct Answer: D
The clinical triad of cauliflower ears, hitchhiker thumb, and clubfeet is diagnostic of Diastrophic Dysplasia. This condition is caused by a mutation in the SLC26A2 gene, which encodes a sulfate transporter protein. Cervical kyphosis is a common and potentially dangerous spinal manifestation in these patients.
Question 15
Which of the following skeletal dysplasias is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern and typically presents in late childhood or adolescence with back pain and premature osteoarthritis of the hips?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia (SED) Tarda is an X-linked recessive condition (linked to the SEDL gene). Unlike the congenita form, it presents later in life (ages 5-10) with mild short stature, platyspondyly with a characteristic 'heaped up' appearance of the posterior vertebral bodies, and early-onset hip arthritis.
Question 16
A patient with Kniest Dysplasia is being evaluated for spinal deformity. What is the characteristic histological finding in the growth plate cartilage of these patients?
Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Kniest Dysplasia is a Type II collagenopathy. Histologically, the cartilage has a 'Swiss cheese' appearance due to large, empty spaces and a depleted matrix. Clinically, these patients have a 'dumbbell' appearance of the long bones and significant spinal involvement.
Question 17
Pseudoachondroplasia is often confused with Achondroplasia. Which of the following features is most helpful in differentiating Pseudoachondroplasia from Achondroplasia?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Pseudoachondroplasia (caused by a COMP mutation) is distinguished from Achondroplasia by the fact that patients have normal facial features and a normal-sized head. Achondroplasia patients typically have frontal bossing and midface hypoplasia. Additionally, Pseudoachondroplasia is not apparent at birth, whereas Achondroplasia is.
Question 18
In a patient with Achondroplasia, what is the most common cause of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or respiratory arrest in early childhood?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Foramen magnum stenosis is a critical complication in infants with Achondroplasia. It can cause compression of the cervicomedullary junction, leading to central apnea, quadriparesis, and sudden death. Decompression is indicated if there are signs of myelopathy or significant narrowing on MRI.
Question 19
A 2-year-old child with Achondroplasia presents with a significant thoracolumbar kyphosis. What is the most appropriate initial management for this spinal deformity?
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
Thoracolumbar kyphosis in Achondroplasia often improves spontaneously once the child begins to walk and develops lumbar lordosis. Initial management focuses on observation and 'back protection,' which includes avoiding 'slumped' unsupported sitting in strollers or carriers. Bracing is reserved for persistent or progressive curves, and surgery is a last resort.
Question 20
Which of the following skeletal dysplasias is characterized by 'corneal clouding' and 'heart valve disease' in addition to severe platyspondyly and odontoid hypoplasia?
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
Morquio Syndrome (MPS IV) involves systemic accumulation of Keratan sulfate, which affects not only the bones (spine, epiphyses) but also the corneas (clouding) and the heart valves. This systemic involvement is a key differentiator from pure skeletal dysplasias like SED.
Question 21
An 8-month-old infant with confirmed achondroplasia presents with a flexible thoracolumbar kyphosis of 35 degrees. Neurological examination is normal. What is the most appropriate management?
Explanation
Question 22
A 12-month-old boy with diastrophic dysplasia is noted to have an isolated mid-cervical kyphosis on lateral radiographs. He has no neurological deficits. What is the expected natural history of this deformity?
Explanation
Question 23
A newborn presents with multiple large joint dislocations, spatulate thumbs, and a flattened facial profile. Lateral cervical spine radiographs reveal severe mid-cervical kyphosis. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
Explanation
Question 24
A 7-year-old girl with Morquio syndrome (MPS IV) presents with progressive endurance loss and generalized hyperreflexia. Lateral flexion-extension radiographs of the cervical spine demonstrate 8 mm of atlantoaxial translation. What is the primary anatomic cause of this instability?
Explanation
Question 25
A 7-month-old infant with achondroplasia is noted to have a 40-degree thoracolumbar kyphosis on lateral sitting radiographs. There are no neurological deficits. What is the most appropriate initial management for this spinal deformity?
Explanation
Question 26
An adult patient with achondroplasia presents with progressively worsening neurogenic claudication. During surgical planning for a decompressive laminectomy, which unique anatomical feature of the achondroplastic lumbar spine must be specifically addressed to prevent persistent stenosis?
Explanation
Question 27
A 3-year-old child with diastrophic dysplasia is diagnosed with cervical kyphosis. Which of the following radiographic features indicates a high likelihood of spontaneous resolution rather than progressive deformity?
Explanation
Question 28
A 12-year-old boy presents with progressive back pain, a short trunk, and a barrel chest. Lateral spine radiographs reveal generalized platyspondyly with a characteristic "heaped-up" or hump-shaped ossification in the central and posterior portions of the lumbar endplates. What is the inheritance pattern of the most likely diagnosis?
Explanation
Question 29
An 18-month-old child presents with coarse facial features, corneal clouding, and a prominent thoracolumbar kyphosis. Based on the suspected diagnosis, lateral spine radiographs are most likely to demonstrate which of the following pathognomonic characteristics?
Explanation
Question 30
A 6-year-old girl with significant short-limb dwarfism and marked ligamentous laxity presents for evaluation. She has a normal facial appearance. Genetic testing reveals a mutation in the COMP gene. What is the most common spinal manifestation requiring surgical intervention in this specific patient population?
Explanation
Question 31
A 15-year-old female with Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type IV presents with hyperreflexia, an abnormal gait, upgoing plantar reflexes, and lower cranial nerve dysfunction. What is the most likely structural diagnosis responsible for her neurological decline?
Explanation
Question 32
A 6-month-old infant with achondroplasia is brought to the clinic due to episodes of central sleep apnea, progressive hyperreflexia, and delayed motor milestones. An urgent MRI reveals severe cervicomedullary compression. What is the most appropriate definitive management?
Explanation
Question 33
A neonate born with a short trunk, prominent joints, and a cleft palate undergoes a radiographic skeletal survey. The films show characteristic coronal clefts of the vertebral bodies and dumbbell-shaped femora. Which specific gene mutation is responsible for this skeletal dysplasia?
Explanation
Question 34
In patients with Mucopolysaccharidoses (such as Hurler or Hunter syndromes), neurological compromise at the craniocervical junction is predominantly caused by which of the following pathomechanical factors?
Explanation
Question 35
A newborn presents with a severely shortened thorax and a "crab-like" appearance of the ribs on an AP chest radiograph. This is secondary to multiple posterior rib fusions and hemivertebrae. What is the most common cause of early mortality in patients with this condition?
Explanation
Question 36
Which of the following is a hallmark characteristic of the scoliosis that develops in patients with diastrophic dysplasia?
Explanation
Question 37
A key clinical and radiographic feature that helps differentiate an infant with Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDC) from one with Achondroplasia at birth is:
Explanation
Question 38
Following an extensive, multi-level lumbar laminectomy for severe spinal stenosis in a 45-year-old patient with achondroplasia, what is the most significant, commonly encountered postoperative complication?
Explanation
Question 39
A 4-year-old girl is evaluated for asymmetric shortening of the lower extremities, congenital cataracts, and ichthyosis. Spine radiographs reveal congenital scoliosis. A review of her infantile radiographs is most likely to show which distinct finding?
Explanation
Question 40
A 10-year-old child presents with an unusual, waddling gait and hypermobility of the shoulders, allowing the patient to touch them anteriorly across the chest. Which of the following spinal abnormalities is most frequently associated with this patient's underlying syndrome?
Explanation
Question 41
A 2-year-old boy with achondroplasia has a persistent, rigid thoracolumbar kyphosis of 45 degrees despite physical therapy and strict avoidance of unsupported sitting. There are no neurological deficits. Radiographs show early structural wedging of the apical vertebra. What is the most appropriate next step in management?
Explanation
Question 42
A newborn presents with severe anterior bowing of the tibiae, skin dimples over the tibial apex, and immediate, severe respiratory distress. Radiographs show hypoplastic cervical vertebral bodies and absent pedicles. What is the underlying genetic mutation for this condition?
Explanation
Question 43
In a young child with progressively severe spondylocostal dysostosis and impending thoracic insufficiency syndrome, which surgical intervention is most widely accepted to maximize pulmonary function and manage the spinal deformity?
Explanation
Question 44
An 8-month-old infant with achondroplasia presents with a flexible thoracolumbar kyphosis of 35 degrees. Neurological examination is completely normal. What is the most appropriate initial management?
Explanation
Question 45
A 2-year-old child with achondroplasia presents with hypotonia, sleep apnea, and delayed motor milestones. MRI reveals severe cervicomedullary compression. Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment?
Explanation
Question 46
A 7-year-old girl with mucopolysaccharidosis type IV (Morquio syndrome) presents with decreased endurance and myelopathic signs. Radiographs reveal severe atlantoaxial instability. What is the primary anatomic cause of this instability in this syndrome?
Explanation
Question 47
Which of the following cervical spine deformities is most characteristic of diastrophic dysplasia and often requires surgical intervention if it becomes rigid or progressive?
Explanation
Question 48
A 9-year-old boy with neurofibromatosis type 1 presents with a short-segmented, sharp angular thoracic scoliosis. Radiographs show vertebral scalloping and penciling of the ribs. What is the most appropriate surgical strategy for a progressive 45-degree curve?
Explanation
Question 49
A 15-year-old with Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type III presents with lower cranial nerve palsies, hyperreflexia, and nystagmus. Which radiographic finding of the spine and cranium is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
Explanation
Question 50
Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDC) commonly involves atlantoaxial instability due to os odontoideum. Which underlying genetic mutation is responsible for this condition?
Explanation
Question 51
A 35-year-old male with achondroplasia presents with neurogenic claudication. Lumbar spine MRI shows severe multi-level spinal stenosis. What anatomical abnormality is the primary driver of the stenosis in this patient?
Explanation
Question 52
A neonate is diagnosed with Larsen syndrome characterized by multiple joint dislocations and spatulate thumbs. Which cervical spine deformity is most critical to screen for immediately to prevent sudden death?
Explanation
Question 53
Which of the following spinal manifestations is highly characteristic of Pseudoachondroplasia and distinguishes it clinically from Achondroplasia?
Explanation
Question 54
A 2-year-old child with Hurler syndrome presents with a prominent thoracolumbar kyphosis. Which of the following radiographic descriptions of the vertebral bodies at the apex of the kyphosis is classic for this condition?
Explanation
Question 55
A 12-year-old male presents with back pain and is diagnosed with X-linked Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Tarda. What classic radiographic finding is typically seen in the lumbar spine of these patients?
Explanation
Question 56
A 3-year-old child presents with a short trunk, prominent joints, and a cleft palate. Spinal radiographs demonstrate platyspondyly with unique vertical radiolucencies in the vertebral bodies. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Explanation
Question 57
A patient with delayed fontanelle closure and absent clavicles undergoes spinal imaging. Which spinal anomaly is most frequently associated with this condition?
Explanation
Question 58
A 14-year-old with neurofibromatosis type 1 is undergoing posterior spinal fusion for dystrophic scoliosis. The anesthetist notes difficulty with neck positioning. What cervical spine abnormality is most commonly associated with dystrophic NF1?
Explanation
Question 59
In a 6-year-old child with achondroplasia, which of the following is an absolute indication for surgical intervention of a thoracolumbar kyphosis?
Explanation
Question 60
A neonate presents with a long trunk and extremely short limbs. By age 5, the phenotype changes to a short trunk with severe kyphoscoliosis. A prominent "tail" is noted over the sacrum. What is the most likely skeletal dysplasia?
Explanation
Question 61
An infant with Conradi-Hünermann syndrome (a form of chondrodysplasia punctata) exhibits stippled epiphyses on x-ray. What spinal complication must be aggressively monitored in this patient?
Explanation
Question 62
A 9-year-old patient with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome presents with gradual onset of weakness in both legs and hyperreflexia. Given the normal intelligence characteristic of this syndrome, what is the most likely cause of the myelopathy?
Explanation
Question 63
During a multi-level laminectomy for severe spinal stenosis in a 40-year-old patient with achondroplasia, extreme care must be taken during decompression to avoid which iatrogenic complication specific to their altered anatomy?
Explanation
Question 64
A 9-month-old infant with confirmed achondroplasia presents with a flexible thoracolumbar kyphosis. There are no neurological deficits. What is the most appropriate initial management plan?
Explanation
Question 65
A neonate diagnosed with diastrophic dysplasia is found to have cervical kyphosis on initial radiographs. The apex of the deformity is at C3. What is the most likely natural history of this cervical deformity?
Explanation
Question 66
A 2-week-old infant with multiple joint dislocations, spatulate thumbs, and a flattened midface is evaluated for spinal anomalies. Which of the following spinal deformities is classic for this syndrome and can be life-threatening if untreated?
Explanation
Question 67
A 7-year-old child presents with disproportionate short stature, waddling gait, and ligamentous laxity. Facial features are normal. Radiographs reveal platyspondyly and anterior tongue-like projections on the vertebral bodies. Which of the following is the most critical spinal complication to monitor in this patient?
Explanation
Question 68
A 6-month-old infant with achondroplasia presents with failure to thrive, central sleep apnea, and hyperreflexia in the lower extremities. What is the most appropriate next step in management?
Explanation
Question 69
A 4-year-old boy presents with short trunk dwarfism, prominent joints, and cleft palate. Spinal radiographs show marked platyspondyly with vertical radiolucencies in the vertebral bodies. Which gene mutation is most likely responsible for this phenotype?
Explanation
Question 70
A 12-year-old boy with X-linked Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Tarda (SEDT) presents with progressive back pain. Which of the following radiographic findings is most characteristic of the vertebral bodies in this condition?
Explanation
Question 71
An adult patient with achondroplasia undergoes a wide laminectomy for severe neurogenic claudication. The primary anatomical cause of lumbar spinal stenosis in this patient population is:
Explanation
Question 72
A 15-year-old female with severe Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Type III) presents with new-onset lower extremity weakness, hyperreflexia, and lower cranial nerve deficits. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Explanation
Question 73
In differentiating between mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) based on lateral spine radiographs, which of the following best describes the classical deformity seen in Hurler Syndrome (MPS I)?
Explanation
Question 74
A 10-year-old girl with diastrophic dysplasia presents with progressive scoliosis. Which of the following statements regarding spinal deformity in diastrophic dysplasia is true?
Explanation
Question 75
Which of the following is the most common underlying cause of atlantoaxial instability in a patient with Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDC)?
Explanation
Question 76
An 8-month-old infant with achondroplasia presents with a flexible thoracolumbar kyphosis of 40 degrees. Neurological exam is normal. What is the most appropriate initial management?
Explanation
Question 77
A 45-year-old male with achondroplasia presents with neurogenic claudication. The spinal stenosis typical of this condition is primarily due to which of the following anatomical abnormalities?
Explanation
Question 78
A 3-year-old child with diastrophic dysplasia is found to have a severe, progressive cervical kyphosis of 60 degrees. What is the recommended management?
Explanation
Question 79
A 5-year-old boy with Morquio syndrome (MPS IV) requires intubation for dental surgery. What is the most significant anesthetic concern regarding his spine?
Explanation
Question 80
A newborn presents with disproportionate short stature, a barrel chest, and a cleft palate. Radiographs reveal delayed ossification of the pubic bones and platyspondyly. Which gene mutation is responsible for this condition?
Explanation
Question 81
A 4-year-old child presents with disproportionate short stature, waddling gait, and joint laxity. Unlike achondroplasia, radiographs show normal interpedicular distances in the lumbar spine. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Explanation
Question 82
A 10-year-old patient with metatropic dysplasia presents for follow-up. Which spinal deformity is most characteristic of the natural history of this specific dysplasia?
Explanation
Question 83
A 12-year-old female with Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type III complains of worsening headaches, dysphagia, and lower cranial nerve deficits. What is the most likely spinal complication?
Explanation
Question 84
A 6-month-old infant with achondroplasia presents with sleep apnea, hyperreflexia, and hypotonia. An MRI confirms severe foramen magnum stenosis. What is the most appropriate surgical intervention?
Explanation
Question 85
A child with "hitchhiker thumbs", cauliflower ears, and severe cervical kyphosis is diagnosed with diastrophic dysplasia. This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern due to a mutation in which of the following?
Explanation
Question 86
A 2-year-old child with Hurler syndrome presents with a prominent lower thoracic gibbus deformity. Radiographs show a hypoplastic, wedge-shaped vertebra with an anterior beak. Where is the vertebral beak typically located in Hurler syndrome?
Explanation
Question 87
A newborn is diagnosed with Conradi-Hunermann syndrome (X-linked dominant chondrodysplasia punctata). Which of the following spinal anomalies is most commonly associated with this condition?
Explanation
Question 88
A 5-year-old child with a flat midface, prominent joints, and a cleft palate is evaluated for a spinal deformity. Radiographs demonstrate platyspondyly with coronal clefts in the vertebral bodies. Which diagnosis is most consistent with these findings?
Explanation
Question 89
A patient with delayed closure of cranial sutures, absent clavicles, and multiple supernumerary teeth is evaluated. Which spinal condition is highly associated with this syndrome?
Explanation
Question 90
A 10-year-old boy presents with progressive back pain and a short trunk. Radiographs reveal platyspondyly with a "heaped-up" appearance of the posterior vertebral endplates. What is the inheritance pattern of this condition?
Explanation
Question 91
A 6-year-old child with achondroplasia has a fixed thoracolumbar kyphosis of 65 degrees with wedging of the L1 vertebra. Conservative measures have failed. What is the most appropriate surgical strategy?
Explanation
Question 92
A neonate presents with bowed lower limbs, pretibial skin dimples, and ambiguous genitalia. Radiographs reveal hypoplastic scapulae and non-mineralized thoracic pedicles. Which cervical spine abnormality is critical to monitor in this patient?
Explanation
Question 93
A 7-year-old girl with Morquio syndrome has documented atlantoaxial instability with 8 mm of translation and early myelopathic signs. What is the recommended surgical management?
Explanation
Question 94
A 6-month-old infant with diagnosed diastrophic dysplasia is noted to have a moderate mid-cervical kyphosis on lateral radiographs, along with spina bifida occulta at the same level. The neurological examination is normal. What is the most appropriate management of the cervical spine deformity at this time?
Explanation
Question 95
A 12-month-old boy with achondroplasia is brought to the clinic for a routine evaluation. Radiographs reveal a thoracolumbar kyphosis of 35 degrees. He has delayed motor milestones but a normal neurological examination. What is the most appropriate next step in management?
Explanation
Question 96
A 7-year-old girl presents with short-limb dwarfism, severe joint laxity, and a completely normal craniofacial appearance. Lateral spine radiographs demonstrate marked platyspondyly with anterior tongue-like projections of the vertebral bodies. Which of the following gene mutations is most likely responsible for her condition?
Explanation
Question 97
A 6-month-old infant with achondroplasia presents with profound hypotonia, brisk lower extremity deep tendon reflexes, and a history of central sleep apnea. What is the most likely anatomic etiology of these clinical findings?
Explanation
Question 98
A newborn is diagnosed with Larsen syndrome, presenting with bilateral knee, hip, and elbow dislocations, along with a prominent forehead and depressed nasal bridge. Which of the following spinal deformities is most characteristic of this syndrome and requires urgent evaluation due to the high risk of catastrophic spinal cord injury?
Explanation
None
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