Which finding is not typical of arterial embolism?

• A. Lower Extremity Edema
• B. Stasis Dermatitis
• C. Palpable Cord
• D. Pulselessness

Answer: (A)

Acute arterial embolism causes sudden limb ischemia with the classic signs of sudden pain, pallor, pulselessness, paresthesias, paralysis, and a cool limb. A palpable cord along the artery fits with an occluded vessel, reflecting the obstructed arterial flow. Lower extremity edema, by contrast, points to venous problems or chronic venous insufficiency where fluid builds up because venous return is impaired. Stasis dermatitis similarly arises from chronic venous hypertension rather than an abrupt arterial blockage. So edema isn’t typical of an arterial embolism, making it the best choice. The other findings align with arterial occlusion: a palpable cord indicates a fixed occlusion, and pulselessness is a key feature of compromised arterial inflow.