MSN 570 Advanced Pathophysiology Final 2024 Related

Review MSN 570 Advanced Pathophysiology Final 2024 related questions and content

In which patients would the manifestation of a headache be a sign of a serious underlying disorder?

  • A. A 55-year-old man with new onset of headaches that are worse at night and reported mood swings according to his family
  • B. A 30-year-old woman with a unilateral throbbing headache with photophobia and nausea
  • C. A 60-year-old man with his head feeling full and throbbing and muscle aching around his neck and shoulders
  • D. A 40-year-old woman who experiences food cravings, gets irritable, and then develops a pulsatile-like headache on the right side of her head
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is the 55-year-old man with new onset headaches that worsen at night and reported mood swings according to his family. These symptoms, especially when combined with nighttime worsening and mood changes, could indicate a serious underlying disorder such as a brain tumor or increased intracranial pressure. Choice B is incorrect as the unilateral throbbing headache with photophobia and nausea is suggestive of migraine headaches, which are usually not associated with serious underlying disorders. Choice C describes symptoms that are more indicative of tension-type headaches rather than a serious underlying disorder. Choice D presents symptoms that are more likely related to hormonal changes and migraines rather than a serious underlying disorder.