Claudication

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Pain in the legs or arms that occurs while walking or using the arms

Question 2

Aetiology/ causes

Answer 2

Usually, a symptom of peripheral artery disease, in which the arteries that supply blood to the arms or legs are narrowed

The narrowing is usually due to a build-up of fatty deposits (plaques) on the artery walls

Question 3

Risk factors

Answer 3

Family history of atherosclerosis,
peripheral artery disease or claudication
Age 50+ if you also smoke or have diabetes
Age 70+
Chronic kidney disease
High cholesterol
High blood pressure

Question 4

Epidemiology/ Population affected

Answer 4

Global prevalence of peripheral artery disease per 100,000 was 333.32 in males and 621.11 in females in the 40-44 age group

Question 5

Clinical presentation

Answer 5

Muscle pain
Ache

Discomfort or fatigue on muscles every time those muscles are used

Pain the calves, thigh, buttocks, hips, or feet

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

Peripheral artery disease generally has a good prognosis with treatment, although mortality rate is relatively high

Question 7

DDX

Answer 7

Sciatica
Atheroembolic disease
Venous insufficiency