Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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What is the endometrial thickness required for a biopsy in elderly patients?

  1. 2mm

  2. 4mm

  3. 6mm

  4. 8mm

The correct answer is: 4mm

In elderly patients, particularly those who are postmenopausal, an endometrial thickness of 4mm is generally considered the threshold for recommending a biopsy. This is based on studies indicating that if the endometrial lining measures less than 4mm, the likelihood of significant pathology, such as endometrial cancer, is very low. In this demographic, evaluating the endometrial thickness serves as a crucial preliminary step prior to performing a biopsy. When the measurement is 4mm or greater, there is a higher suspicion for potential abnormalities or pathology, which justifies the need for further investigation through biopsy. This guideline is especially important for clinicians dealing with elderly patients, as they may present with atypical symptoms, and understanding the appropriate endometrial thickness helps in making informed decisions about the necessity of further diagnostic procedures.