The Physical Examination in Cardiovascular Disease: The Extremities

Acrocyanosis
Acrocyanosis is constant, painless symmetric cyanosis of the hands which is due to vasospasm of the small vessels of the skin. It can occur on the feet, although less common

Clubbing
Clubbing refers to a thickening and widening of the digits and extremities caused by the proliferation of distal tissues

Cyanosis

 * Cyanosis is defined as the abnormal blue discoloration of the mucuous membranes or skin caused by an extreme reduction of oxygen in the blood
 * Increase of the reduced hemoglobin of about 5 g/dl
 * Can be confined to the periphery or generalized:
 * Central: Mucuous membranes and lips
 * Peripheral: Nose, earlobes and phalanges

Edema

 * Pedal edema is defined as non-painful swelling of the feet.