Browse all practice questions for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 3 Practice Exam. Search by topic, open any question and review its full explanation, then test yourself in the practice quiz.

United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 3 Practice Exam course image
More practice questions

These questions are part of the practice quiz. Start practicing

  • Which organisms are typically associated with pneumonia in patients who use intravenous drugs?
  • What is the inpatient treatment regimen for pyelonephritis?
  • Which condition is NOT typically associated with porphyria cutanea tarda?
  • What is the most likely infectious agent associated with pneumonia in a patient with bronchiectasis or cystic fibrosis?
  • What is the first-line treatment for gonorrhea?
  • Target cells on a blood smear are indicative of which condition?
  • What is the characteristic rash associated with Lyme disease?
  • Which pathogens are common in human bites?
  • Which treatment is typically not recommended for toxic epidermal necrolysis?
  • Which of the following conditions is commonly NOT associated with microcytic anemia?
  • Which antibiotic class is NOT effective against anaerobes?
  • In which patient demographic is Henoch-Schonlein purpura most commonly found?
  • What is a significant finding in necrotizing fasciitis that warrants surgical intervention?
  • Which organism is commonly associated with severe soft tissue infections in diabetic patients?
  • To whom must a laboratory notify if testing for tularemia?
  • For a patient with Lyme disease presenting with a rash, joint pain, or Bell's palsy, what is the appropriate first-line treatment?
  • For the treatment of a MALT tumor, what should be checked first?
  • What test results confirm hemolysis?
  • What creatinine level indicates a need for caution when using contrast in CT scans?
  • Drug rashes are generally mediated by which type of immune response?
  • In children diagnosed with constitutional pubertal delay, what is often found?
  • What is the initial treatment for cryptococcal meningoencephalitis in an HIV patient?
  • What type of anemia is associated with riboflavin deficiency?
  • Which medications are known causes of Stevens-Johnson syndrome?
  • What is a known side effect of daptomycin?
  • Which antibiotic is often used to treat MSSA infections in an intravenous form?
  • What is the next step following a positive blood culture indicative of Strep bovis?
  • What condition is commonly linked to spontaneous abortion if contracted early in pregnancy?
  • What is the recommended outpatient treatment for pyelonephritis?
  • What is the most confirmatory diagnostic test for carcinoid syndrome?
  • In pneumonia cases linked to HIV, which atypical pathogen is considered?
  • A high RDW indicates what type of abnormality in red blood cells?
  • When is antenatal corticosteroid therapy typically administered?
  • Which cephalosporins are effective against respiratory anaerobes?
  • What is one of the five causes of microcytic anemia?
  • Which pathogens are known for their association with bioterrorism-related pneumonia?
  • For epididymitis in a patient younger than 35 years, what is the recommended treatment?
  • Which treatment option is not recommended for toxic shock syndrome?
  • What is the most sensitive and specific imaging study for diagnosing endocarditis?
  • In the case of cellulitis, what is the appropriate treatment option for severe infections?
  • What is the best initial test for diagnosing polyarteritis nodosa?
  • When is a HIDA scan most appropriately used?
  • What is the characteristic morphology of Actinomyces bacteria?
  • What are Burr or Spur cells typically associated with on a blood smear?
  • Dermatographism is characterized by which of the following?
  • In patients with COPD, which of the following pathogens is commonly associated with pneumonia?
  • Which condition is a common additional finding in patients with pernicious anemia?
  • What is the treatment of choice for streptococcus infections?
  • Which antibiotic class is Aeromonas hydrophila commonly susceptible to?
  • What is the most reliable way to diagnose Babesiosis?
  • Which treatment is indicated for Babesiosis?
  • What is the primary indication for a bone scan?
  • Which antibiotic is considered best for GNRs among the beta-lactams?
  • What organism is commonly associated with the formation of kidney stones?
  • If a patient has a penicillin allergy, which alternative therapies can be used for animal bites?
  • What condition is indicated by elevated alkaline phosphatase and unexplained pruritus?
  • How should a human bite be treated, considering the risk of tendon or bone involvement?
  • What is the recommended prophylactic treatment for malaria?
  • What clinical finding is pathognomonic for malignant otitis externa?
  • What is the gold standard for confirming iron deficiency?
  • Which organism is most commonly responsible for causing erysipelas?
  • What is the most serious skin hypersensitivity reaction called?
  • What was noted about the effects of steroids in treating Stevens-Johnson syndrome?
  • Which of the following is NOT one of the three Ds of niacin deficiency?
  • What peripheral blood smear finding is characteristic of megaloblastic anemia?
  • Can leukopenia and thrombocytopenia occur due to B12 or folate deficiency?
  • What are the Duke criteria used for?
  • Which anemia is primarily due to vitamin B12 deficiency?
  • What vital sign abnormalities indicate the need for ICU admission according to CURB-65?
  • Which of the following is considered a major criterion in the Duke criteria?
  • What is a key diagnostic feature of porphyria cutanea tarda?
  • Which bacteria are commonly found in diabetic foot ulcers?
  • Which treatment is indicated for leptospirosis?
  • Which of the following medications can potentially cause lactic acidosis?
  • What conditions are associated with pseudogout?
  • Which group of conditions can lead to hypoproliferative macrocytic anemias?
  • Which parasites would show inclusions on peripheral smear?
  • What esophageal condition is associated with iron deficiency?
  • What bacteria are typically associated with cat bites?
  • What is the most common late manifestation of Lyme disease?
  • Which of the following is a cause of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA)?
  • Which symptoms can be associated with carcinoid syndrome?
  • What treatment is commonly used for primary HIV-associated thrombocytopenia?
  • What is the significance of elevated indirect bilirubin in a hemolytic process?
  • What syndrome is characterized by red, flushed skin due to histamine release?
  • What is the primary treatment for MRSA and VRE infections?
  • What medication should be administered prior to initiating nitroprusside therapy?
  • What pathogen is likely responsible for pneumonia in a patient with a recent travel history to Southeast Asia?
  • What additional clinical features can accompany primary biliary cholangitis?
  • What is the best imaging test for Takayasu's arteritis?
  • What is a characteristic finding in the iron studies of iron deficiency anemia?
  • What laboratory test is the diagnostic test of choice for primary syphilis?
  • What is the most common viral cause of croup?
  • Aeromonas hydrophila is primarily found in what type of environments?
  • Which of the following is a result of vitamin B6 deficiency?
  • What is the characteristic skin change seen in riboflavin deficiency?
  • Schistocytes on a blood smear are commonly associated with which condition?
  • A patient with pneumonia and a history of alcoholism is most likely infected by which organism?
  • What is a common complication of acute otitis media?
  • What is the initial treatment for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
  • Which bug is known to cause overwhelming sepsis in asplenics following a dog bite?
  • What is the recommended empirical treatment for a previously healthy outpatient with community-acquired pneumonia?
  • Which is NOT a cause of autoimmune hemolytic anemia?
  • Which of the following is a major manifestation of hypophosphatemia?
  • What should be considered a potential cause of folliculitis in whirlpool bath users?
  • Which vitamin deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia without neurological symptoms?
  • When diagnosing leptospirosis, which of the following is the preferred diagnostic method?
  • What is the best test for diagnosing Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
  • What laboratory finding would indicate cryptococcal infection in an HIV positive patient?
  • Which characteristic is associated with multiple myeloma?
  • Which pathogen is most commonly associated with malignant otitis externa?
  • What characterizes Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)?
  • What combination of treatment is recommended for toxic shock syndrome?
  • Which condition is associated with cheilosis and glossitis?
  • What are common symptoms associated with Zenker's diverticulum?
  • What is a common clinical presentation of Vibrio vulnificus infection?
  • What is typically observed on a barium swallow in a patient with achalasia?
  • When is endocarditis prophylaxis indicated?
  • What laboratory finding is associated with G6PD deficiency?
  • Which class of antibiotics has no anaerobic coverage?
  • Which demographic is most likely to present with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)?
  • In the case of a blood smear indicating lead poisoning, which finding would be present?
  • What is a direct Coombs test used to assess?
  • What is a common antimicrobial treatment for endocarditis?
  • What is the recommended treatment for Nocardia infections?
  • What symptom might suggest a diagnosis of disseminated mycobacterium avium complex (MAI) in an HIV patient?
  • Which condition is characterized by the presence of focal neurological deficits and a CD4 count less than 50?
  • What is one benefit of antenatal corticosteroid therapy?
  • Hantavirus infection is primarily linked to exposure to what?
  • What is the causative agent of chancroid?
  • What metabolic abnormality is commonly associated with hypothyroidism?
  • What is the recommended treatment for animal bites?
  • What characteristic lesion is associated with erythema multiforme?
  • Which of the following conditions is associated with Nikolsky's sign?
  • Hand-foot-mouth disease is predominantly caused by which virus?
  • Which pathogens are typically found in reptile bites?
  • Which condition is associated with pure red cell aplasia?
  • Which condition is characterized by Acanthocytes on a blood smear?
  • What is the typical presentation of a chancroid ulcer?
  • Which of the following medications is an alternative treatment for PMS if SSRIs are ineffective?
  • What is the recommended treatment for granuloma inguinale?
  • What is a common consequence of chronic thiamine deficiency?
  • What is the initial treatment for furuncles and carbuncles?
  • Which antibiotic is used to treat both strep and anaerobes effectively?
  • Which type of rash is associated with coccidioidomycosis?
  • What is the most reliable clinical marker for assessing bone turnover?
  • Is it safe to use cephalosporins in a patient with a rash due to penicillin allergy?
  • What does a positive nitrite test in urine indicate?
  • What is a unique characteristic of soluble transferrin receptor assay in iron deficiency evaluation?
  • When is treatment for asymptomatic bacteriuria indicated?
  • Which scan is typically the first-line test for pulmonary embolism?
  • What condition is characterized by multifocal infiltrates and hilar lymphadenopathy?
  • What condition is caused by the Babesia parasite and is characterized by hemolytic anemia?
  • Which pathogen is indicated in patients with pneumonia and a history of recent travel or exposure to agriculture?
  • In sideroblastic anemia, what happens to the serum iron and ferritin levels?
  • What type of virus is responsible for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
  • What is the primary treatment for primary biliary cholangitis?
  • What percentage of total skin area is typically affected by toxic epidermal necrolysis?
  • In B12 deficiency, what happens to the level of methylmalonic acid (MMA)?
  • Which medication is associated with the development of pancreatitis?
  • Which class of antibiotics is primarily used for treating Staphylococcus aureus?
  • Basophilic stippling on a blood smear is associated with which of the following conditions?
  • What pathogens are typically associated with early HIV-related pneumonia?
  • What is the first-line treatment approach for a diabetic foot ulcer with severe infection?
  • What is the primary treatment for Ehrlichiosis?
  • What condition is characterized by severe crusting and is commonly seen in immunocompromised patients?
  • What formula is used to calculate the Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR)?
  • What condition develops due to the formation of autoantibodies against parietal cells and intrinsic factor?
  • What type of antibody test is used for diagnosing celiac disease?
  • What is the most common bacterium associated with dog bites?
  • What does a non-contrast head CT primarily rule out?
  • In patients with anemia of chronic disease, what is the typical level of ferritin?
  • In which patients should MRI with gadolinium be avoided?
  • What is a common treatment for children suffering from chronic daily headaches?
  • What condition is characterized by a delayed puberty with a bone age less than chronological age?
  • What constitutes an adequate sputum sample for microbiological examination?
  • What are the classic symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
  • What does the presence of leukocyte esterase in urine indicate?
  • Which vitamin deficiency is associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?
  • Which pathogen is linked to exposure to birds?
  • What is the first-line treatment for premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
  • What is a common treatment option for primary and secondary syphilis?
  • What is the best initial imaging study for diagnosing PML?
  • What severe side effect can occur with the use of nevirapine?
  • Which organism is commonly associated with pneumonia in patients with late HIV?
  • Which food is a good source of calcium for lactose-intolerant patients?
  • Which oral antibiotic does not provide adequate coverage for skin infections?
  • Which of the following organisms is associated with HACEK group infections?
  • What is a common laboratory finding in alcoholic ketoacidosis?
  • What is the primary treatment for disseminated Blastomycosis?
  • What is the primary indication for using daptomycin?
  • What underlying health issue can cause erythema nodosum?
  • Which of the following is NOT a hypoproliferative normocytic anemia?
  • The presence of M protein is typical in which condition?
  • What is typically seen in a patient with a corkscrew esophagus on barium swallow?
  • What should be the initial action taken for a patient presenting with post-partum hemorrhage?
  • When is MRI typically preferred for use?
  • In patients with bronchiectasis, which organism is a common problem leading to recurrent infections?
  • What is a significant biopsy finding consistent with celiac disease?
  • Which condition is commonly associated with Actinomyces infections?
  • What is a critical consideration when treating a clenched fist human bite?
  • What is the primary finding in iron studies for anemia of chronic disease?
  • What is a typical histological finding in achalasia?
  • In vitamin C deficiency, what is a distinctive skin finding?
  • How can herpes simplex be diagnosed when vesicle roofs have come off?
  • What is the mechanism leading to reflex sympathetic response when nitroprusside is administered without certain medications?
  • Which treatment is generally recommended for acute pulmonary disease related to Histoplasmosis?
  • What finding would you expect on a bone marrow biopsy in sideroblastic anemia?
  • What demographic is most commonly affected by Takayasu's arteritis?
  • Which medication should be discontinued prior to a CT scan with contrast?
  • What is the primary treatment option for diffuse esophageal spasm?
  • What type of pneumonia is commonly seen in patients with recent travel to areas afflicted by hantavirus?
  • For painful ulcer treatment caused by Hemophilus ducreyi, which medication is commonly used?
  • What are initial laboratory tests recommended for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)?
  • Which foods should be avoided in a diet for someone with celiac disease?
  • Which pathogen is NOT typically associated with pneumonia in an alcoholic patient?
  • Which side effect is specifically associated with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs)?
  • What physical examination finding is associated with Klinefelter's syndrome?
  • Which of the following is NOT a cause of sideroblastic anemia?
  • Which test can help confirm a diagnosis of Ehrlichiosis?
  • What age group is typically affected by bullous pemphigoid?
  • In pregnancy, how much should levothyroxine dose be adjusted for most patients?
  • What are the common symptoms of toxoplasmosis in an HIV patient?
  • What is a typical symptom of malignant otitis externa?
  • Which condition can develop as a sequela of a streptococcal throat infection?
  • What is the first-line treatment for prostatitis?
  • What is the definitive treatment for lymphogranuloma venereum caused by Chlamydia trachomatis?
  • Which condition is primarily associated with contact with rabbits and farming activities during summer?
  • Recurrent gonorrhea infections are associated with what deficiency?
  • What characterizes the primary stage of syphilis?
  • Thalassemia can lead to which characteristic finding on a blood smear?
  • What happens to thyroglobulin levels in thyroiditis?
  • What is the main limitation of ertapenem?
  • What pathogen is likely involved if pneumonia occurs after staying in a hotel or cruise ship?
  • What type of cells are seen on peripheral smear in myelodysplastic syndrome?
  • When should young female patients receive antibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)?
  • What is the most common cause of urticaria?
  • Which organisms are most commonly associated with necrotizing fasciitis?
  • What do you need to assess with a contrast head CT?
  • What is the standard medication used for antenatal corticosteroid therapy?
  • Which of the following antibiotics does NOT cover pseudomonas?
  • Which organism is responsible for Lyme disease?
  • What is a common symptom associated with biotin deficiency?
  • What is the most common cause of hypophosphatemia in hospitalized patients?
  • What is the mechanism by which lactulose works in the body?
  • What are the primary symptoms of coccidioidomycosis?
  • In which individuals is Babesiosis particularly severe?
  • Patients with which underlying conditions are at higher risk for infections with Aeromonas species?
  • What is the preferred treatment for osteomyelitis caused by Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)?
  • Which antibiotic class can be used if a patient has a penicillin allergy and has a rash?
  • Which of the following conditions can be treated with a proton pump inhibitor and antibiotics?
  • What is a defining feature of erysipelas?
  • What laboratory method is used to confirm a diagnosis of Actinomyces?
  • What medication class is used to treat infections caused by MRSA?
  • Which condition is associated with rapid enlargement of the thyroid gland in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
  • Which crystals are characteristic of pseudogout?
  • Which of the following causes of aplastic anemia is a toxin?
  • Ursodiol is primarily used to treat which condition?
  • Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for colorectal cancer?
  • Which laboratory finding is consistent with anemia of chronic disease?
  • What type of lesions are typically associated with Blastomycosis?
  • Which class of antibiotics is considered safe to use during pregnancy?
  • What infection is suggested by a ring-enhancing lesion with mass effect on MRI?
  • Which abnormal lab finding is typically present in hemolysis?
  • What is a first-line treatment for osteomyelitis caused by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)?
  • What additional coverage is needed in the treatment of necrotizing fasciitis?
  • What is a potential adverse effect associated with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)?
  • Which antibiotics are effective against Gram-negative rods (GNRs)?
  • In the evaluation of iron deficiency anemia, what happens to transferrin levels?
  • In the case of pneumonia due to endobronchial obstruction, which pathogen is commonly identified?
  • What antibiotic is used for prophylaxis in close contacts of confirmed meningococcal meningitis cases?
  • Which condition can MRI be used to assess directly, according to the information provided?
  • Which is the best test for diagnosing folate deficiency?
  • In cellulitis with a penicillin allergy, what is appropriate treatment for a minor infection?
  • What deficiency might require supplementation in a patient with celiac disease?
  • What is a key clinical feature of disseminated Histoplasmosis?
  • Which test is necessary before administering oral antibiotics for osteomyelitis?
  • Which microorganism is associated with exposure to farm animals or parturient cats?
  • What is the appropriate duration of prophylactic treatment for an animal bite?
  • What is a primary feature of iron deficiency as reflected in serum ferritin levels?
  • Which type of vasculitis is associated with chronic Hepatitis B infection?
  • Which condition is defined by vasculitis, eosinophilia, and asthma?
  • What is the vasculitis associated with chronic Hepatitis C?
  • Which organism is typically not a cause of pneumonia in a smoker with COPD?
  • What is the most common cause of primary hypothyroidism?
  • Which symptom is a key feature of erythema nodosum?
  • What is NOT considered a risk factor for endocarditis?
  • In cases of CNS or cardiac involvement in Lyme disease, which treatment is recommended?
  • What is the treatment duration for endocarditis?
  • Which antibiotic is recommended for treating chlamydia in a pregnant patient?
  • Which of the following is NOT a cause of acquired aplastic anemia?
  • What is a common treatment for impetigo?
  • Which endocrine disorder can mimic the symptoms of PMS?
  • What conditions might benefit from an adrenal scan?
  • What is the most notable symptom of vitamin C deficiency?
  • In autoimmune hemolytic anemia, what is a characteristic finding on peripheral smear?
  • A high tone lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is indicative of which condition?
  • What biopsy evidence supports a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis?
  • What condition is associated with Strep bovis bacteremia?
  • What skin involvement percentage defines severe cases of TEN?
  • Which neurological complication is most commonly associated with Lyme disease?
  • Which laboratory test is often used to diagnose primary biliary cholangitis?
  • What is the sensitivity and specificity of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in diagnosing endocarditis?
  • Which medication is commonly used for the treatment of hyperuricemia in patients with TEN?
  • Which of the following is a risk factor for beta-lactam resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae?
  • What is the most common form of congenital aplastic anemia?
  • What imaging technique is recommended to determine the presence of ring-enhancing lesions in toxoplasmosis?
  • Klinefelter's syndrome is characterized by which of the following chromosomal patterns?
  • Which type of anemia is characterized by low serum iron and low transferrin saturation?
  • What is a characteristic of a perinephric abscess?
  • Which organism is associated with pneumonia after travel in the southwestern United States?
  • What biopsy finding is characteristic of Crohn's disease?
  • What is the characteristic appearance of gout crystals under polarized light microscopy?
  • What condition is indicated by a high RBC count combined with very low MCV and normal RDW?
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a potential side effect of which class of antiretroviral medications?
  • Which intravenous antibiotics are used for MRSA?
  • What is a known side effect of abacavir?
  • Which of the following conditions is associated with the presence of spherocytes?
  • What type of bacteria characterizes Nocardia infections?
  • What is the first-line treatment for severe lead poisoning?
  • Which treatment is commonly administered for pemphigus vulgaris?
  • Exposure to rabbits can lead to infection with which pathogen?
  • What is the best initial test for diagnosing a pneumothorax?
  • Which antibiotic binds to toxins in cases of gas gangrene?
  • Which of the following is the first step in the management of post-partum hemorrhage?
  • What is a frequently employed treatment for the underlying cause of erythema nodosum?
  • Which antibiotic is known for having good coverage against MRSA?
  • What is the primary treatment for fungal skin infections affecting hair and nails?
  • What is a distinguishing feature of pemphigus foliaceus?
  • What effect does iron deficiency anemia generally have on total iron binding capacity (TIBC)?
  • In a patient with iron deficiency anemia, what would you expect the transferrin saturation to be?
  • What criterion is used for continuous antibiotic prophylaxis in recurrent UTIs?
  • Which antibiotics are specifically effective against anaerobes in abdominal infections?
  • Which pathogen is commonly associated with pneumonia in patients with renal failure?
  • Which organism is primarily responsible for Q fever?
  • What is often considered a hallmark of pneumonia caused by infection with S. pneumoniae?
  • What symptoms are commonly associated with Ehrlichiosis?
  • What imaging finding is characteristic of PML?
  • What is the appropriate length of treatment for a documented infection from an animal bite?
  • What is a common neurological manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency?
  • What organism is associated with exposure to bat or bird droppings?
  • Which condition can lead to jaundice and fatigue, in addition to elevated alkaline phosphatase levels?
  • Which pathogen is associated with the cause of achalasia in South America?
  • Which risk factor is associated with community-acquired MRSA?
  • What serological tests are commonly used for the diagnosis of late Lyme disease?
  • What is a common complication associated with Lyme disease?
  • What is the first-line oral antibiotic for treating minor MSSA infections?
  • What treatment is indicated for early localized Lyme disease with a rash?
  • Which condition presents with hemolysis and gastrointestinal complaints, often diagnosed with a blood smear?
  • Where is Histoplasmosis most commonly found in the United States?
  • Which pneumonia-causing organism is specifically linked to avian exposure?
  • What is a typical feature of a drug rash?
  • In outpatient treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which of the following is a recommended regimen?
  • What is a classic symptom of Kallmann's syndrome?
  • What condition are patients with primary HIV-associated thrombocytopenia (PHAT) similar to?
  • The CURB-65 criteria is used for assessing what aspect of patient care?
  • What is the most common cardiac manifestation of Lyme disease?
  • What is the recommended action if a patient experiences red man syndrome during vancomycin infusion?
  • What does the number needed to treat (NNT) formula help to determine?
  • Which of the following symptoms may be associated with food sticking in the throat?
  • What is a common feature of pemphigus vulgaris?
  • What is the best test for diagnosing pernicious anemia?
  • Which condition typically adjusts mortality for age, gender, and race?
  • Which organism causes Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?
  • What are the only cephalosporins that provide anaerobic coverage?
  • What are common symptoms of Henoch-Schonlein purpura?
  • Which symptom is not typically associated with biotin deficiency?
  • What are the common pathogens causing aspiration pneumonia?
  • What is a common side effect of the medication indinavir?
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy