Trousseau's sign

A carpopedal spasm induced by occlusion of the brachial artery with a blood pressure cuff inflated above systolic pressure for several minutes, indicating increased neuromuscular excitability and latent tetany.

Causes

• Electrolyte abnormalities

  • Hypocalcemia

  • Hypomagnesemia

  • Hypokalemia

• Endocrine causes

  • Hypoparathyroidism

  • Vitamin D deficiency

• Renal and metabolic causes

  • Chronic kidney disease

  • Metabolic alkalosis

  • Respiratory alkalosis (hyperventilation)

• Blood transfusion-related citrate toxicity --> hypocalcemia