Peripheral arterial disease-what do we need to know?

Madhan Shanmugasundaram, Vinny K. Ram, Ulrich C. Luft, Molly Szerlip, Joseph S. Alpert

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) results from progressive narrowing of arteries secondary to atherosclerosis and is defined as an Ankle Brachial Index of <0.9. PAD is highly prevalent and is an increasing burden on both the economy and the patient, especially given the rapid shift in demographics in the United States. Despite its prevalence and association with cardiovascular disease, PAD is still underdiagnosed and undertreated. This may, in part, be related to lack of recognition from the physician's side or paucity of evidence from clinical trials. It has been shown that medical therapy approved for cardiovascular disease is effective in the treatment of PAD and decreases cardiovascular events. Various revascularization strategies are also available for improving symptoms and quality of life in these patients, yet they are underutilized. In an attempt to increase its recognition, PAD has been considered a coronary artery disease equivalent. This article reviews the diagnosis and management of PAD.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)478-482
Number of pages5
JournalClinical cardiology
Volume34
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2011

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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