Question

Which of the following statements is true regarding an aortic aneurysm?

1.
A bruit is absent.
2.
Femoral pulses are increased.
3.
A pulsating mass is usually present.
4.
Most are located below the umbilicus.

Answer 1

Among the given options, the true statement regarding an aortic aneurysm is that a pulsating mass is usually present. Aortic aneurysms typically occur in the abdominal region and can be felt as a pulsating sensation in the abdomen.

Step-by-step explanation:

The true statement regarding an aortic aneurysm among the options given is that a pulsating mass is usually present. An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulge that occurs in the wall of the aorta, the largest artery in the body. The aorta has distinct regions, which include the ascending aorta, aortic arch, and descending aorta — the latter further divides into the thoracic and abdominal aorta. Most aortic aneurysms occur in the abdominal portion of the aorta and can be detected as a pulsating mass in the abdomen. A bruit may sometimes be heard over the aneurysm, but it is not a defining feature. Femoral pulses are typically normal or decreased rather than increased in the presence of an aortic aneurysm, and while some aneurysms can certainly be located above the umbilicus, it's more common for them to be found below it, in the abdominal region.