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Peripheral arterial disease: diagnosis and management
Faisel A Arain1, Leslie T Cooper
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. cooper.leslie@mayo.edu
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|August 5, 2008
Summary
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is common, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. Early diagnosis via noninvasive tests and optimal medical therapy, including exercise and risk factor modification, are crucial for managing PAD and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Public Health
Background:
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a prevalent condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
- PAD shares similar pathophysiology and risk factors with systemic atherosclerotic disease.
- The condition is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated, highlighting a critical gap in patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) diagnosis and management.
- To emphasize the importance of early detection and risk factor modification in PAD.
- To outline optimal medical and interventional treatment strategies for patients with PAD.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on peripheral arterial disease (PAD) pathophysiology, risk factors, and diagnostic methods.
- Analysis of established treatment guidelines for optimal medical therapy and surgical referral criteria.
- Evaluation of pharmacologic interventions like cilostazol for symptom management.
Main Results:
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can be accurately diagnosed using simple, noninvasive, office-based tests.
- Optimal medical therapy involves supervised exercise, smoking cessation, and risk factor modification.
- Cilostazol demonstrates efficacy in improving walking distances for intermittent claudication patients.
- Referral to vascular specialists is indicated for severe or refractory cases.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are essential for improving outcomes in peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
- A multi-faceted approach including lifestyle changes, medication, and timely specialist referral is key.
- Addressing PAD effectively can reduce associated morbidity and mortality.
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