What sign might indicate arterial occlusion during a physical exam?

Pallor and coolness of the limb are classic signs of arterial occlusion during a physical examination. When there is an occlusion, blood flow to the affected area is compromised, leading to inadequate perfusion. As a result, the skin can appear pale due to reduced blood supply. Coolness of the limb occurs because, without adequate blood flow, the normal warmth provided by the circulating blood is lost.

In patients with arterial occlusion, the absence of blood flow might also manifest in other ways, but the combination of pallor and coolness is particularly indicative of this condition. It’s essential to recognize these signs, as they help differentiate arterial occlusion from other conditions like venous issues or inflammatory responses, which might present differently, such as with swelling or increased warmth.