What symptom is indicative of venous compression during the ROOS Test (EAST, AER)?

The symptom indicating venous compression during the ROOS Test, also known as the Elevated Arm Stress Test (EAST) or Adson's Test, is swelling and cyanosis. This test is performed to assess vascular and neurological function in the upper extremities, specifically looking at thoracic outlet syndrome.

When the test is positive for venous compression, the patient may exhibit swelling due to impaired venous return from the arm. This can lead to a buildup of blood and fluid, resulting in swelling. Cyanosis, a bluish tint to the skin, occurs as a result of inadequate blood flow and oxygenation in the venous system. Therefore, if a patient shows both swelling and cyanosis during the ROOS Test, it serves as an important clinical sign of venous compression.

In contrast, other symptoms, while they may suggest different types of vascular or neurological involvement, do not specifically indicate venous compression. For instance, arm pallor could suggest arterial insufficiency, while arm hyperemia indicates increased blood flow rather than a blockage. The positive sulcus sign relates to glenohumeral instability rather than the thoracic outlet, making it less relevant in this context. Thus, the presence of swelling and cyanosis directly correlates with ven