Sample interview questions: Can you explain your knowledge of pediatric gastroenterologic disorders and management?
Sample answer:
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Gastroesophageal reflux (GER):
- Pathophysiology: Incompetent lower esophageal sphincter leading to reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.
- Manifestations: Regurgitation, vomiting, failure to thrive, respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, wheezing), and esophagitis.
- Management: Medical therapy (e.g., proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor antagonists), dietary modifications, lifestyle changes (e.g., avoiding large meals, elevating the head of the bed), and surgical intervention (e.g., fundoplication) in severe cases.
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Pyloric stenosis:
- Pathophysiology: Narrowing of the pyloric sphincter, causing obstruction of gastric emptying.
- Manifestations: Projectile vomiting, failure to thrive, dehydration, and hypochloremic alkalosis.
- Management: Surgical intervention (e.g., pyloromyotomy) is the definitive treatment.
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Intestinal malrotation:
- Pathophysiology: Incomplete rotation of the intestines during fetal development, resulting in abnormal positioning and potential volvulus (twisting) of the bowel.
- Manifestations: Bilious vomiting, abdominal pain, and distension.
- Management: Surgical intervention (e.g., Ladd’s procedure) to correct the malrotation and prevent complications.
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Hirschsprung’s disease:
- Pathophysiology: Congenital absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon, leading to functional obstruction.
- Manifestations: Constipation, abdominal distension, and failure to thrive.
- Management: Surgical intervention (e.g., Swenson’s procedure) to remove the affected segment of the colon.
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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Read full answer
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