Which of the following is a sign of compartment syndrome?

Which of the following is a sign of compartment syndrome?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Jaundice
• C. Fever
• D. Parasthesia

Answer: (D)

Compartment syndrome happens when pressure inside a muscle compartment impedes blood flow, risking nerve and muscle tissue. Early nerve involvement shows up as paresthesia—numbness or tingling in the affected area—so this is the most specific sign among the options. Hypertension isn’t a diagnostic feature of compartment syndrome and can occur for many reasons; jaundice signals liver or biliary disease; fever points to infection or inflammation. When paresthesias appear, it indicates nerve ischemia from the rising pressure and calls for prompt evaluation to relieve the pressure and prevent permanent damage.

Compartment syndrome happens when pressure inside a muscle compartment impedes blood flow, risking nerve and muscle tissue. Early nerve involvement shows up as paresthesia—numbness or tingling in the affected area—so this is the most specific sign among the options. Hypertension isn’t a diagnostic feature of compartment syndrome and can occur for many reasons; jaundice signals liver or biliary disease; fever points to infection or inflammation. When paresthesias appear, it indicates nerve ischemia from the rising pressure and calls for prompt evaluation to relieve the pressure and prevent permanent damage.