Which statement about blood pressure distribution in coarctation of the aorta is correct?

Which statement about blood pressure distribution in coarctation of the aorta is correct?

• A. Hypertension In Upper Extremities
• B. Normal In All Limbs
• C. Hypotension In Lower Extremities
• D. Hypertension In Lower Extremities

Answer: (C)

Coarctation of the aorta creates a pressure gradient across the narrowed segment: high pressure proximal to the lesion and reduced flow distal to it. This means the arteries supplying the upper body (arms and head) typically have higher systolic pressures, while the lower limbs receive less blood flow and have lower pressure. Therefore, hypotension in the lower extremities is the most accurate reflection of the usual blood pressure distribution in this condition. While upper-extremity hypertension can be present, the key distribution pattern described here focuses on the lower limbs being underperfused. Normal pressures in all limbs or hypertension in the lower extremities don’t fit the characteristic gradient produced by the aortic narrowing.

Coarctation of the aorta creates a pressure gradient across the narrowed segment: high pressure proximal to the lesion and reduced flow distal to it. This means the arteries supplying the upper body (arms and head) typically have higher systolic pressures, while the lower limbs receive less blood flow and have lower pressure. Therefore, hypotension in the lower extremities is the most accurate reflection of the usual blood pressure distribution in this condition. While upper-extremity hypertension can be present, the key distribution pattern described here focuses on the lower limbs being underperfused. Normal pressures in all limbs or hypertension in the lower extremities don’t fit the characteristic gradient produced by the aortic narrowing.