Asthma USMLE Step 1 Practice Question
A 44-year-old aerospace engineer with a 3-year history of progressive dyspnea and chronic cough presents with vital signs: BP 128/82, HR 92, RR 22, SpO2 88% on room air, and afebrile. Chest X-ray reveals diffuse interstitial infiltrates and hilar lymphadenopathy. Serum ACE level is elevated at 68 U/L. Lung biopsy demonstrates noncaseating granulomas. Tuberculin skin test is negative. Which occupational exposure most likely explains this patient's presentation?
Answer choices
- ACotton dust
- BBerylliumCorrect answer
- CAsbestos
- DSilica dust
- ECoal dust
- FOrganic grain dust
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