PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or peripheral vascular disease (PVD) refers to the clinical manifestations of diseases affecting the arteries of the body other than the heart.
Most commonly the disease process is atherosclerosis. For ways to tackle this problem, click here.
The following figure gives an idea of how common the problems are in relation to arterial disease affecting the legs:
About 80% of the population have risk factors for arterial disease. 20% of the population have disease (furring or hardening of the arteries) but have no symptoms. Of the 5% of patients who have symptoms, less than half will consult their general practitioner. Of these about a half will be referred to the hospital for assessment.
Peripheral arterial disease affecting the legs was classified by Leriche and Fontaine:
| 0 | No arterial disease |
| I | Asymptomatic |
| II | Intermittent claudication |
| III | Rest pain or ulcers |
| IV | Gangrene |
Levels III and IV are collectively known as critical ischaemia.
Detailed information on these conditions can be found by clicking on the following:
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