An 18-year-old patient with trisomy 21 has an unrepaired complete atrioventricular (AV) canal defect and pulmonary hypertension. She is complaining of headache and dizziness. Which of the following tests would be most likely to reveal the etiology of these complaints?
A) Electrocardiography (ECG)
B) Electroencephalography (EEG)
C) Hematocrit
D) Sinus radiography
E) Urinalysis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Patients with unrepaired complete atrioventricular (AV) canal defect and pulmonary hypertension are at risk for developing secondary erythrocytosis due to chronic hypoxemia. This condition can lead to increased blood viscosity, which in turn can cause symptoms such as headache and dizziness. Hematocrit measurement is the most direct way to assess for erythrocytosis, making it the most likely test to reveal the etiology of these complaints in this patient.

An 18-Year-Old Patient with Trisomy 21 Has an Unrepaired Complete