Intermittent claudication is a cramping sensation in the legs that is present during exercise or walking and occurs as a result of decreased oxygen supply. This cramping usually occurs in the calf, but may also occur in the feet. When intermittent claudication is discussed it is measured by the number of "blocks" (e.g. 1 or 2 blocks) one can walk comfortably. It often indicates severe atherosclerosis. One of the hallmarks of this clinical entity is that it occurs intermittently. It disappears after a brief rest and the patient can start walking again until the pain recurs.

Intermittent claudication in and of itself is often a symptom of severe atherosclerotic disease of the peripheral vascular system. The term claudication derives from the Latin verb claudicare which means to limp. The Roman emperor, Claudius (ruling from A.D. 41-54) was named such because of his limp.

Signs

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The following signs are general signs of atherosclerosis of the lower extremity arteries:

• cyanosis
• atrophic changes like loss of hair, shiny skin
• decreased temperature
• decreased pulse
• blanching of limb on elevation
• redness when limb is returned to a "dependent" position

Treatment

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In patients who smoke, smoking cessation is the most effective treatment. Exercise can improve symptoms as do medication to control the lipid profile, diabetes and hypertension. Surgery is only indicated in severe cases with limb-threatening ischemia or lifestyle-limiting claudication. The vascular surgeon will perform an endarterectomy of leg arteries or an arterial bypass.

Epidemiology

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Atherosclerosis affects up to 10% of the Western population older than 65 years and for intermittent claudication this number is around 5%. Intermittent claudication most commonly manifests in men older than 50 years.

See also

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• Atherosclerosis
• Peripheral artery occlusive disease

Angiology | Symptoms | Vascular surgery

Arterielle Verschlusskrankheit | 閉塞性動脈硬化症 | Etalagebenen | Doença arterial periférica | Fönstertittarsjukan