Abstract
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is estimated to affect more than 20% of people older
than 65 years. The vast majority of patients with symptoms suggestive of PAD have
atherosclerosis often associated with conventional vascular risk factors such as smoking,
diabetes, dyslipidemia, and inflammation. A minority of people presenting with symptoms
suggesting PAD have an alternative etiology. These groups of disorders are often underdiagnosed,
and if diagnosed correctly the diagnosis may be delayed. Understanding these pathologies
well is important, as they can be very debilitating and optimal treatment may vary
significantly. Inappropriate treatment of these disorders can lead to worsening morbidity
and mortality. This article discusses the underlying causes of nonatherosclerotic
PAD, including the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
Keywords
nonatherosclerotic peripheral artery disease - mimics of peripheral vascular disease
- iliac artery endofibrosis - popliteal artery entrapment syndrome - fibromuscular
dysplasia - interventional radiology