Which of the following is a clear sign of an abdominal aortic aneurysm during a physical examination?

A pulsatile abdominal mass is a clear sign of an abdominal aortic aneurysm during a physical examination. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterized by the abnormal dilation of the abdominal aorta, which can often be felt as a pulsatile mass in the midline of the abdomen. During a physical assessment, a clinician can detect this mass by palpation, which may also demonstrate a noticeable pulse that is synchronized with the heartbeat, indicating the presence of an aneurysm.

Recognition of a pulsatile mass is crucial, as it can signify potential rupture, which is a medical emergency. Other symptoms, such as back pain or a feeling of fullness, may accompany the presence of the mass, but palpation of the mass itself is a definitive sign.

Options like localized swelling do not specifically indicate an AAA and could be attributed to other conditions affecting the abdomen or surrounding structures. Severe tenderness in the legs may suggest issues with circulation or nerves, while limited resistance to bending does not have direct relevance to the presence of an aneurysm. Therefore, the identification of a pulsatile abdominal mass is specifically linked to the diagnosis of an abdominal aortic aneurysm and is a crucial component of the clinical assessment for this condition.