Arteriosclerosis obliterans

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Arteriosclerosis obliterans
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Synonyms Peripheral artery disease, peripheral vascular disease
Pronounce N/A
Specialty Vascular surgery, Cardiology
Symptoms Claudication, leg pain, cold feet, ulcers
Complications Gangrene, amputation, heart attack, stroke
Onset Typically after age 50
Duration Long-term
Types N/A
Causes Atherosclerosis, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol
Risks Smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity
Diagnosis Ankle-brachial index, Doppler ultrasound, angiography
Differential diagnosis Deep vein thrombosis, spinal stenosis, arthritis
Prevention Smoking cessation, exercise, healthy diet, cholesterol management
Treatment Lifestyle changes, medications, angioplasty, bypass surgery
Medication Statins, antiplatelet drugs, cilostazol
Prognosis Variable, depends on severity and treatment
Frequency Common in older adults
Deaths N/A


A condition characterized by the thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow.


Arteriosclerosis Obliterans[edit | edit source]

Diagram of an artery showing arteriosclerosis.

Arteriosclerosis obliterans is a form of arteriosclerosis involving the progressive thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries. This condition leads to the narrowing and eventual blockage of the arteries, which can significantly reduce blood flow to various parts of the body.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Arteriosclerosis obliterans primarily affects the peripheral arteries, particularly those supplying the lower extremities. The disease process involves the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the arterial walls. These plaques are composed of lipids, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, the plaques harden and narrow the arterial lumen, impeding blood flow.

Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of arteriosclerosis obliterans depend on the severity and location of the arterial blockage. Common symptoms include:

  • Intermittent claudication: Pain and cramping in the legs during exercise, which is relieved by rest.
  • Rest pain: Persistent pain in the feet or toes, especially at night.
  • Ulceration and gangrene: Severe cases may lead to tissue death due to lack of blood supply.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of arteriosclerosis obliterans is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests. These may include:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for arteriosclerosis obliterans aims to relieve symptoms and prevent further progression of the disease. Options include:

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures focus on reducing risk factors associated with arteriosclerosis. These include:

See also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD