PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a differential diagnosis for lower extremity claudication?

1. Asthma

2. Hypertension

3. Neurologic conditions

4. Dehydration

The correct answer is: Neurologic conditions

Lower extremity claudication typically refers to pain or discomfort in the legs that occurs with physical activity and is relieved by rest, often due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles, commonly associated with peripheral artery disease. Neurologic conditions can be a differential diagnosis for this symptom because they can present with leg pain or weakness that mimics claudication. For example, conditions such as spinal stenosis or lumbar radiculopathy can cause similar symptoms by affecting the nerves that innervate the lower extremities. When considering asthma, it primarily affects the respiratory system and is unlikely to present with symptoms specifically related to leg discomfort during exertion. Hypertension, while a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, typically does not cause localized pain in the lower extremities. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramping or fatigue but doesn’t typically present with the specific pattern of exertional leg pain associated with claudication. Therefore, neurologic conditions are a valid consideration in the differential diagnosis for patients experiencing lower extremity claudication-like symptoms as they can produce overlapping or confounding symptoms.