CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC MANUAL
A decreased pulse volume, also known as a weak or thready pulse, refers to an arterial pulse that feels faint when palpating the arteries. This condition may indicate a reduction in the amount of blood pumped by the heart with each beat or an increase in peripheral resistance. Identifying the underlying cause of a decreased pulse volume is crucial for the proper diagnosis and treatment of associated medical conditions.
Pathology | Suspected Diagnosis | Confirmatory Diagnosis |
Reduced cardiac contractility | Weak pulse, dyspnoea, fatigue, exercise intolerance. | Echocardiogram, blood tests (BNP, troponins). |
Hypovolaemia | Weak and rapid pulse, hypotension, dizziness, pale and cool skin. | Blood tests (haematocrit, electrolytes), abdominal ultrasound. |
Hypovolaemia secondary to vasodilation | Weak pulse, hypotension, warm extremities, moist skin. | Clinical history, blood tests, renal and liver function tests. |
Aortic stenosis | Weak and delayed pulse, systolic murmur, dyspnoea, syncope. | Echocardiogram, chest X-ray. |
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