A pulsating mass that is noted mid-abdomen indicates
A) an arrhythmia.
B) palpitations.
C) aortic aneurysm.
D) pulmonary embolus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of an aneurysm may have either an insidious or a sudden, acute onset. Symptoms depend on the location and size of the aneurysm and the extent of the dilation. Abdominal aortic aneurysm is the most common form. An asymptomatic aneurysm of the aorta is often discovered during a routine physical examination when the abdomen is being palpated or as the result of an abdominal radiographic study conducted for another reason. As the aortic aneurysm enlarges, the patient may experience abdominal or back pain, and a pulsating mass is observed in the abdomen. A complication of any aneurysm is leakage from the wall of the artery or sudden rupture of the weak area. When this occurs, the patient exhibits symptoms and signs of hemorrhagic shock. Rupture of a cerebral aneurysm mimics signs of a CVA, with unilateral neurologic deficits being noted.

A Pulsating Mass That Is Noted Mid-Abdomen Indicates