Which is a normal characteristic of lymph nodes in a healthy adult patient?

Choice A reason: Large, fixed lymph nodes suggest pathology, such as malignancy or chronic infection, as they indicate adherence to surrounding tissues. In healthy adults, lymph nodes are typically small and not fixed, making this an abnormal and incorrect characteristic.

Choice B reason: Large, non-mobile lymph nodes may indicate infection or malignancy, as healthy nodes are usually small and mobile. Non-mobility suggests tissue infiltration, which is pathological, making this an incorrect description of normal lymph node characteristics.

Choice C reason: Granular texture is not a standard term for describing lymph nodes. Healthy nodes, when palpable, feel smooth and soft. Granular suggests abnormality, possibly infection or malignancy, making this an inaccurate characteristic for healthy lymph nodes.

Choice D reason: In healthy adults, lymph nodes are typically not palpable, as they are small, soft, and non-tender, blending into surrounding tissues. Palpable nodes often indicate inflammation or pathology, making this the correct description of a normal finding.

Choice A reason: Herniated brainstem causes bilateral pupil changes and severe neurological signs, not unilateral dilation. Unilateral pupil dilation suggests increased intracranial pressure, so this is incorrect for these findings.

Choice B reason: Unilateral pupil dilation and nonreactivity, as seen in the right pupil, indicate increased intracranial pressure, often from mass effect compressing the oculomotor nerve. This is critical, making it the correct finding.

Choice C reason: Subdural hemorrhage may cause pressure but isn’t specific to these pupil changes. Unilateral dilation points to increased intracranial pressure as the immediate concern, so this is less precise.

Choice D reason: Cerebral edema contributes to pressure but is a broader term. Unilateral pupil dilation specifically suggests increased intracranial pressure, a more immediate and precise diagnosis, so this is incorrect.