Peripheral Artery Disease

Question 1

Define peripheral arterial disease.

Answer 1

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) includes a range of arterial syndromes that are caused by atherosclerotic obstruction of the lower-extremity arteries.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of peripheral arterial disease.

Answer 2

Smoking
Diabetes
Hypertension
Hyperlipidaemia
Age >40 years
History of coronary artery disease/cerebrovascular disease
Low levels of exercise

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of peripheral arterial disease.

Answer 3

The prevalence of PAD increases with age, beginning after 40 years of age. In the UK, one-fifth of people aged 65 to 75 years have evidence of PAD on clinical examination.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of peripheral arterial disease. Recognise the signs of peripheral arterial disease on physical examination.

Answer 4

Asymptomatic
Intermittent claudication
Thigh or buttock pain with walking that is relieved with rest
Diminished pulse

Question 5

Identify appropriate investigations for peripheral arterial disease and interpret the results.

Answer 5

Ankle-brachial index
Doppler ultrasound
MRA
Dupplex scan
Angioplasty