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Peripheral arterial disease is only the tip of the atherosclerotic "iceberg"

Laurie G Futterman1, Louis Lemberg

  • 1Department of Medicine, University of Miami School of Medicine, FL 33101, USA.

American Journal of Critical Care : an Official Publication, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
|July 10, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is underrecognized and undertreated. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management, including antiplatelet and lipid-lowering therapies, are crucial for preventing cardiovascular events in PAD patients.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Biology and Medicine

Background:

  • The peripheral vascular system, the largest organ system, harbors potential for novel therapeutic targets.
  • Coronary and noncoronary circulations are interconnected, necessitating a holistic approach to vascular health.

Observation:

  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated.
  • Key therapies like antiplatelet and lipid-lowering treatments are underutilized in PAD patients.
  • Atherosclerosis management requires addressing multifactorial issues across all arterial beds.

Findings:

  • Clopidogrel, an antiplatelet agent, effectively prevents adverse cardiovascular events in individuals with PAD.
  • Therapeutic angiogenesis shows promise in alleviating severe claudication symptoms.

Implications:

  • Cardiologists and primary care physicians must adopt a global perspective in managing PAD.
  • Improved recognition and utilization of evidence-based therapies can significantly enhance patient outcomes in PAD.

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