Exertional Leg Symptoms Other Than Intermittent Claudication Are Common in Peripheral Arterial Disease

Abstract

LOWER-EXTREMITY peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can be accurately, noninvasively diagnosed with the ankle-brachial index (ABI), a ratio of Doppler-recorded systolic pressures in the lower and upper extremities.^1-5 Intermittent claudication has been considered the most characteristic manifestation of PAD and is defined as ischemic calf pain precipitated by walking and relieved within 10 minutes of rest.^6-9 However, in community-based epidemiological studies, most people with a low ABI consistent with PAD do not have classic intermittent claudication.^10-12 It is unclear whether these men and women with low ABI unaccompanied by claudication are asymptomatic or have leg symptoms other than claudication.