Infections: practice question

A Orthopaedics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Orthopaedics · Infections

Sample item

In children, haematogenous osteomyelitis most often starts in which part of a long bone?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Metaphysis

Slow blood flow and sluggish sinusoidal loops in the metaphyseal region allow bacteria to settle there. Staphylococcus aureus is the commonest organism. Early treatment with antibiotics and drainage of any abscess prevents chronic disease.

Option by option

  • A. Epiphysis

    The epiphysis is usually spared once the growth plate acts as a barrier.

  • B. Diaphysis

    The diaphysis is less often the primary site.

  • C. Articular cartilage

    Cartilage is avascular and not the usual starting site.

  • D. Metaphysis (correct)

    Correct. Metaphyseal vascular loops favour bacterial seeding.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Orthopaedics questions

Questions about this Orthopaedics question

What is the answer to this Orthopaedics question?

The best answer is D, Metaphysis. Slow blood flow and sluggish sinusoidal loops in the metaphyseal region allow bacteria to settle there.

Why is "Epiphysis" not the answer?

The epiphysis is usually spared once the growth plate acts as a barrier.

Why is "Diaphysis" not the answer?

The diaphysis is less often the primary site.

Why is "Articular cartilage" not the answer?

Cartilage is avascular and not the usual starting site.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Infections in Orthopaedics. Staphylococcus aureus is the commonest organism. Early treatment with antibiotics and drainage of any abscess prevents chronic disease.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Infections?

Pair each fracture with its classic complication and nerve injured. Then use the flashcards and the other Orthopaedics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.