Psychiatry confusion pairs
13 Psychiatry topics students commonly mix up on Step 2 CK, each with the fastest separator, a side-by-side comparison, and a free practice question.
Step 2 CK pairs are in open beta while clinical review finishes. Spot an issue? Tell us.
- Opioid withdrawal vs Benzodiazepine withdrawalRisk of life-threatening seizures and delirium.
- Anorexia nervosa vs Bulimia nervosaObjectively low body weight is the fastest discriminator, because bulimia usually occurs at near-normal weight.
- Alcohol withdrawal vs Delirium tremensNew delirium with severe autonomic instability after alcohol cessation identifies delirium tremens rather than uncomplicated withdrawal.
- Schizophrenia vs Schizoaffective disorderA documented period of psychosis lasting at least 2 weeks without mood symptoms separates schizoaffective disorder from mood disorders…
- Major depressive disorder vs Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)Duration is the fastest discriminator: at least 2 years of depressed mood indicates persistent depressive disorder.
- OCD vs Generalized anxietyCompulsions are the branch point: repetitive rituals to neutralize intrusive thoughts indicate obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Generalized anxiety disorder vs Panic disorderAbrupt attacks that peak within minutes separate panic disorder from generalized anxiety disorder.
- Mania vs HypomaniaPsychosis or need for hospitalization immediately classifies the episode as mania rather than hypomania.
- Bipolar I vs Bipolar IIHistory of full mania requiring hospitalization or lasting at least 7 days is the single discriminator for bipolar I.
- Suicide risk high vs Suicide risk lowPresence of active intent plus a feasible plan with means available is the key branch point for psychiatric admission.
- Adjustment disorder vs Major depressionMeeting the 5-symptom major depressive episode threshold for at least 2 weeks separates MDD from adjustment disorder.
- PTSD vs Acute stress disorderSymptom duration beyond 1 month is the key discriminator for PTSD versus acute stress disorder.
- Brief psychotic disorder vs Schizophreniform disorderPsychotic symptom duration below 1 month versus at least 1 month is the key discriminator.