A 35-Year-Old Woman Is Evaluated Due to Pain in the Left

question 267

Multiple Choice

A 35-year-old woman is evaluated due to pain in the left lower extremity.  The patient twisted her left ankle a month ago, and the initial pain and swelling gradually improved with rest and ibuprofen.  However, over the next few weeks, she began experiencing worsening pain in the left foot, ankle, and lower calf.  The pain is severe and constant, has a burning or stinging quality, and is worsened by movement.  Vital signs are within normal limits.  Examination shows erythema, warmth, and nonpitting edema of the left foot and leg extending up to midcalf.  Light touch of the affected area elicits severe pain.  There is decreased range of motion of the left ankle.  The right lower extremity is normal, and the remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities.  Blood cell counts, serum chemistry studies, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate are within normal limits.  Left foot and ankle radiographs reveal patchy areas of osteopenia.  Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

• A)Chronic lymphedema
• B)Complex regional pain syndrome
• C)Deep venous thrombosis
• D)Peripheral arterial disease
• E)Peripheral neuropathy
• F)Skin and soft tissue infection

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Definitions:

Milgram's Experiment

A controversial 1960s study by psychologist Stanley Milgram testing obedience to authority figures, wherein participants were led to believe they were administering electric shocks to others.

Obedience to Authority

The psychological phenomenon where individuals comply with instructions or orders from an authority figure, often studied to understand social influence and power dynamics.

Mild Shock

A low-intensity electric shock that may cause minimal discomfort but is generally not harmful.

Obedience to Authority

The psychological phenomenon where individuals comply with orders from an authority figure, often ignoring their own preferences or moral standards.