Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

In the context of psychiatric disorders, what might a physical examination help to exclude?

1. Organic causes for psychological symptoms

2. Panic attacks

3. Substance-induced mood disorders

4. Behavioral issues

The correct answer is: Organic causes for psychological symptoms

A physical examination plays a crucial role in the psychiatric context, primarily in ruling out organic causes for psychological symptoms. This process is essential because many psychiatric disorders can present with symptoms that overlap with medical conditions, such as metabolic disorders, neurological issues, or infections. By conducting a thorough physical exam, along with appropriate laboratory tests, a clinician can identify or exclude potential underlying medical issues that could be contributing to a patient's psychological state. For instance, conditions like hyperthyroidism can manifest as anxiety symptoms, or vitamin deficiencies might lead to cognitive changes that could be mistaken for a mental health disorder. Therefore, the physical examination is a foundational step in ensuring that any psychological symptoms are not a reflection of a treatable medical condition. While panic attacks, substance-induced mood disorders, and behavioral issues might be considered in the assessment and diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder, these situations often rely more heavily on clinical history, behavior observation, and patient interviews rather than a physical examination to rule them out.