American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

For mild persistent asthma, what is the recommended treatment regimen?

1. PRN Albuterol inhaler only

2. Daily Fluticasone and PRN Albuterol inhaler

3. Only inhaled steroids

4. Oral corticosteroids

The correct answer is: Daily Fluticasone and PRN Albuterol inhaler

The recommended treatment regimen for mild persistent asthma includes a daily inhaled corticosteroid, such as Fluticasone, combined with a rescue medication, typically a PRN (as needed) Albuterol inhaler. This approach is designed to provide ongoing control of asthma symptoms and reduce inflammation in the airways, which is a hallmark of asthma pathology. Inhaled corticosteroids like Fluticasone effectively decrease airway hyperreactivity, improve lung function, and diminish the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations, making them essential for daily management. The PRN Albuterol serves as a quick-relief bronchodilator that acts to relieve acute bronchoconstriction when symptoms arise, allowing patients to have a dual approach to manage both chronic symptoms and acute episodes. Other treatment options listed do not provide an appropriate regimen for mild persistent asthma. A PRN Albuterol inhaler alone would not control persistent inflammation and is insufficient for regular symptom management. Only inhaled steroids, while beneficial, do not address the need for a rescue inhaler for acute symptoms. Oral corticosteroids are generally reserved for more severe asthma exacerbations and are not suitable for routine management due to significant potential side effects associated with long-term use. Thus, the combination of daily Fluticas