Peripheral arterial occlusive disease

Peripheral Arterial Occlusive Disease (PAOD), also known as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), is a common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs.

Etiology

PAOD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a systemic disease characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaques) in the artery walls. Other less common causes include arteritis, abnormal muscle or ligament development, and radiation exposure.

Pathophysiology

In PAOD, the arteries that supply blood to the limbs, particularly the legs, are narrowed or blocked. This is most commonly due to atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up on the inner walls of the arteries. This reduces the diameter of the arteries, limiting the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles and tissues.

Clinical Manifestations

The most common symptom of PAOD is claudication, which is characterized by leg pain or discomfort that occurs with exercise and subsides with rest. Other symptoms may include numbness or weakness in the legs, coldness in the lower leg or foot, and sores on the toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly or not at all.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of PAOD typically involves a physical examination, review of the patient's medical history, and diagnostic tests. These may include an ankle-brachial index (ABI), Doppler ultrasound, angiography, or Computed Tomography (CT) scan.

Treatment

Treatment for PAOD aims to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent progression of the disease. This may involve lifestyle changes, medications, or in severe cases, surgery or angioplasty.

Prognosis

With appropriate management, the prognosis for individuals with PAOD can be good. However, the disease is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, and myocardial infarction, and can lead to complications such as critical limb ischemia and amputation.

See Also

• Atherosclerosis
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Stroke
• Myocardial Infarction