**Core Concept**
The Nicoladoni sign is a clinical indicator of an arteriovenous fistula, which is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein. This condition can lead to various symptoms due to the abnormal flow of blood, including changes in pulse and blood pressure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Nicoladoni sign is a positive sign when a patient's pulse in the fistula-containing limb increases or stays the same when the pressure in the contralateral (opposite) limb is raised. This occurs because the increased pressure in the contralateral limb causes a greater flow of blood through the arteriovenous fistula, leading to an increase in the pulse in the fistula-containing limb. This phenomenon is due to the fact that the fistula acts as a low-resistance pathway for blood flow, allowing blood to bypass the normal capillary bed and flow directly from the artery to the vein.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not relevant to the Nicoladoni sign.
**Option B:** The "water hammer" pulse is a characteristic finding in aortic regurgitation, not related to the Nicoladoni sign.
**Option C:** The "dorsalis pedis" pulse is a normal finding in the foot, not related to the Nicoladoni sign.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Nicoladoni sign is an important clinical indicator of an arteriovenous fistula and can be used to diagnose this condition in patients with a history of trauma or surgical interventions.
**Correct Answer:** C. Dorsalis pedis pulse.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.