National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test

A patient exhibiting a cough, low-grade fever, and non-tender lymphadenopathy with chest radiographs showing a granular hilar mass is most likely to have which condition?

1. Sarcoidosis

2. Lymphoma

3. Tuberculosis

4. Interstitial lung disease

The correct answer is: Sarcoidosis

The scenario described aligns closely with sarcoidosis, a condition characterized by the formation of small inflammatory nodules known as granulomas. The combination of cough, low-grade fever, and non-tender lymphadenopathy, particularly in conjunction with the presence of granular hilar masses on chest radiographs, are hallmark features of sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis often presents with these specific symptoms due to the immune system's involvement leading to granuloma formation not just in the lungs, but also in lymph nodes and other organs. The hilar mass observed on the chest radiograph indicates enlarged lymph nodes, which is commonly seen in sarcoidosis rather than in other conditions listed. While the other conditions may present with overlapping symptoms, they do not fit the specific combination displayed here as precisely as sarcoidosis. Lymphoma might involve lymphadenopathy and respiratory symptoms, but it typically presents with other distinguishing features, like more pronounced systemic symptoms or a specific appearance on imaging. Tuberculosis generally comes with more severe symptoms, such as significant weight loss and cough with sputum, particularly in advanced stages. Interstitial lung disease presents differently, often with symptoms related to chronic lung dysfunction rather than isolated lymphadenopathy and the described mass. Thus, based on the combination of symptoms and