What condition may result from a significant difference in blood pressure readings between arms?

A significant difference in blood pressure readings between the arms may indicate coarctation of the aorta, a condition characterized by a narrowing of the aorta that can lead to lower blood flow to the lower half of the body. When coarctation occurs, the arm on the side of the coarctation may have a higher blood pressure because less blood is able to flow from the narrowing towards the legs, resulting in discrepancies in blood pressure when measured in different limbs. This finding is significant as it can help diagnose the coarctation early, allowing for timely intervention.

Heart valve disease, atrial fibrillation, and coronary artery disease may all be associated with cardiovascular complications, but they do not typically lead to such a pronounced difference in arm blood pressure readings as seen in coarctation of the aorta. In other conditions, the disparities may not be as clearly identifiable, making coarctation a standout indicator for evaluation.