Ms. Chen is a 60-year-old widow with a 6-month history of episodic chest tightness, shortness of breath, and numbness that "moves all over my body." These symptoms, which occur once or twice weekly, happen suddenly and reach peak intensity within a few minutes. During these episodes she has the sensation of intermittent "hot" air coming from her abdomen to her throat, making her believe that she is being choked. She also describes feeling as if she is in a closed room or small space. Ms. Chen is anxious and frustrated about her symptoms and thinks she might have a serious medical problem. She has had frequent medical evaluations by her primary care physician and second opinions from various specialists but she refuses to see a psychiatrist. Considering all of the symptoms experienced by Ms. Chen, which of the following most accurately describes her condition?
A) Parinaud's syndrome
B) Hyperphagia
C) Panic disorder
D) Wernicke's aphasia
E) Dementia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ms. Chen's symptoms of episodic chest tightness, shortness of breath, numbness, sensation of being choked, and feeling as if she is in a closed room, which reach peak intensity within minutes, are characteristic of panic attacks. Panic disorder is diagnosed when an individual experiences recurrent, unexpected panic attacks followed by at least one month of persistent concern about having another attack, worry over the implications of the attack, or a significant change in behavior related to the attacks. Her refusal to see a psychiatrist and the absence of findings in medical evaluations further support this diagnosis.

Ms Chen Is a 60-Year-Old Widow with a 6-Month History