True about pseudohypertension?
**Core Concept**
Pseudohypertension, also known as "calcification-induced stiffening of the arteries," refers to the phenomenon where the blood pressure readings obtained by a sphygmomanometer appear elevated, but the arterial walls are actually stiffened due to calcification, leading to a false representation of hypertension.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pseudohypertension is often seen in patients with calcific aortic stenosis or chronic kidney disease. The calcification of the arterial walls increases the stiffness of the arteries, which in turn causes a higher systolic blood pressure reading. This is because the calcified arteries are unable to compress and expand with the changes in blood pressure, leading to an overestimation of the blood pressure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because pseudohypertension is not directly related to increased cardiac output or peripheral resistance.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because pseudohypertension is not a result of increased intravascular volume or fluid overload.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because pseudohypertension is not a result of secondary causes of hypertension such as renal artery stenosis or primary aldosteronism.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When a patient has a high blood pressure reading on a sphygmomanometer, but the physical examination and laboratory findings do not support the diagnosis of hypertension, pseudohypertension should be considered. This is especially true in patients with a history of calcific aortic stenosis or chronic kidney disease.
**Correct Answer: C.**