Which of the following are considered late signs of compartment syndrome?

In the context of compartment syndrome, late signs are indicative of severe tissue ischemia and the progression of the condition. Pulselessness and pallor are critical signs that suggest that the blood flow to the affected area is critically compromised. As compartment syndrome develops, the pressure within the compartment increases, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen to the tissues. If pulselessness occurs, it indicates that the arterial supply has been severely impacted, potentially leading to irreversible muscle and nerve damage. Pallor further complements this by showing a lack of adequate blood flow, which results in a paler appearance of the skin.

Other options represent symptoms that are commonly observed in the earlier stages of compartment syndrome. For instance, pain and paresthesia are often initial signs of the condition, reflecting the nerve irritation that happens as pressure builds. Paralysis and swelling can be seen as the syndrome progresses, but they do not typically represent the most severe and life-threatening stage compared to the lack of pulse and changes in skin coloration. Similarly, weakness and discoloration may occur but do not encapsulate the critical nature of vascular compromise as effectively as pulselessness and pallor do.