USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

What is the most likely cause of an increased pulse pressure?

1. Aortic stenosis

2. Cardiogenic shock

3. Hyperthyroidism

4. Heart failure

The correct answer is: Hyperthyroidism

An increased pulse pressure indicates a significant difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure and can be caused by several factors. While options A, B, and D may all lead to changes in blood pressure, they typically result in a decrease in pulse pressure rather than an increase. Aortic stenosis, for example, restricts blood flow through the aortic valve, resulting in a lower pulse pressure. Similarly, cardiogenic shock and heart failure both reduce the strength of the heartbeat, leading to a narrower pulse pressure. In contrast, hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland, which can cause the heart to beat faster and stronger, resulting in a wider pulse pressure.