All of the following findings would be expected in a person with coarctation of the aorta except –
**Coarctation of the Aorta**
**Core Concept**
Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart defect characterized by the narrowing of the aortic isthmus, typically located near the insertion of the ductus arteriosus. This narrowing leads to an obstruction of blood flow from the left ventricle to the rest of the body, resulting in increased pressure and resistance in the upper body and decreased blood pressure in the lower body.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The increased pressure and resistance in the upper body lead to the development of collateral blood vessels to bypass the narrowed segment. These collateral vessels can cause enlargement of the aortic arch and the left subclavian artery. Additionally, the increased pressure in the left ventricle can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy. The decreased blood pressure in the lower body can cause diminished pulses in the lower extremities.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Diminished pulses in the lower extremities would be expected in coarctation of the aorta, as the narrowing of the aorta leads to decreased blood pressure in the lower body.
**Option B:** Enlargement of the aortic arch and the left subclavian artery is a common finding in coarctation of the aorta due to the development of collateral blood vessels.
**Option C:** Left ventricular hypertrophy is a common finding in coarctation of the aorta due to the increased pressure and resistance in the left ventricle.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Coarctation of the aorta is often associated with other congenital anomalies, such as Turner syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
**Correct Answer: D.**