Aortic Regurgitation: Key Peripheral Signs and Underlying Causes
Introduction: Aortic regurgitation (AR) , or Aortenklappeninsuffizienz , is a condition in which the aortic valve does not close properly during diastole, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow creates several hemodynamic changes in the body and is associated with a number of classic peripheral signs that are particularly noticeable in cases of chronic severe aortic regurgitation . Below, we outline five key peripheral signs that help in recognizing this condition, followed by a review of its common causes. Five Peripheral Signs of Aortic Regurgitation Quincke's sign : This sign presents as alternating blushing and blanching of the nailbeds with each heartbeat. It is a sign of capillary pulsation and is most easily observed by applying gentle pressure to the nailbed while using a light source to enhance visibility. This phenomenon results from the large stroke volume and increased pulse pressure associated with aortic regurgitation. L