American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What condition is described by lateral great toe deviation with a bony deformity on the medial aspect of the first metatarsal phalangeal joint?

1. Plantar fasciitis

2. Hallux valgus deformity

3. Morton's neuroma

4. Metatarsalgia

The correct answer is: Hallux valgus deformity

The condition characterized by lateral deviation of the great toe accompanied by a bony deformity on the medial aspect of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is hallux valgus deformity. This condition occurs when the big toe pushes toward the other toes, resulting in a noticeable protrusion of bone on the inside of the foot. The bony deformity is known as a bunion, and it is a hallmark feature of hallux valgus. This deviation can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty finding properly fitting footwear, which significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. The angle formed between the first metatarsal and the proximal phalanx of the great toe increases with the severity of the condition. Hallux valgus is commonly associated with various factors, including foot structure, footwear choices, and genetic predisposition. In contrast, plantar fasciitis typically involves heel pain and is associated with inflammation of the plantar fascia rather than deformity at the first toe joint. Morton's neuroma refers to a painful condition affecting the nerve between the toes and does not involve bony deformities. Metatarsalgia describes pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often without a specific bony deformity. Thus, the