What physical exam findings are associated with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is often characterized by specific physical exam findings, which include a pulsatile abdominal mass and an abdominal bruit. The presence of a pulsatile mass suggests that there is an enlarged portion of the aorta that can be felt upon examination, indicating the abnormal dilation of the vessel. The abdominal bruit, which is a sound heard auscultated over the abdomen, results from turbulent blood flow within the aneurysmal segment of the aorta.

These findings are key indicators in the physical examination of a patient suspected to have an AAA. They reflect the underlying pathology of the aneurysm and help guide further diagnostic evaluation and management.

In contrast, the other options do not present findings typically associated with an AAA. For instance, intact distal circulation (CSMT) and no swelling might be observed in various conditions, but they are not specific indicators of an AAA. Likewise, a positive straight leg raise is relevant to evaluating issues related to lumbar spine or sciatic nerve problems, which are unrelated to AAA. Finally, stating that no deformities are present would not typically correlate with AAA, since the presence of an aneurysm can be a clear deformity of the normal aorta. Therefore, the combination of a pulsatile