What circulatory signs are present in arterial insufficiency?

• A. Diminished or absent pulse, cold limbs, no edema
• B. Normal pulses, warm, with edema
• C. Warm limbs and full pulses
• D. Swelling and redness with warmth

Answer: (A)

Arterial insufficiency mainly shows up as reduced arterial inflow to the limb. Because the arterial supply is compromised, distal pulses become weak or disappear, and the limb feels cold due to lack of warm arterial blood. Edema is not a typical feature because the problem is not fluid backing up in the leg, but rather insufficient inflow. In contrast, pulses that are normal or a warm, edematous limb point away from arterial insufficiency and toward venous problems or other causes. So the combination of diminished or absent pulses, coldness, and little to no edema best reflects arterial insufficiency.