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Acute limb ischemia — ABEM Board MCQ

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HardCardiovascular emergenciesAcute limb ischemiaABEM Board

A 70-year-old man with atrial fibrillation arrives with sudden severe left leg pain. Triage acuity is ESI 2; BP 152/86 mm Hg, HR 112/min irregular. The foot is pale and cool with diminished sensation and absent Doppler pulses. Motor function is weak at the ankle. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Acute arterial occlusion causing limb ischemia

Sudden pain, pallor, pulselessness, paresthesia, and weakness indicate acute limb ischemia requiring emergent vascular management.

Reference: ACEP vascular emergency guidance; Society for Vascular Surgery acute limb ischemia guidance