What test is used to evaluate for peripheral arterial disease (PAD)?

The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is the test specifically designed to evaluate peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This non-invasive test compares the blood pressure in the patient’s ankle with the blood pressure in the arm. A significantly lower blood pressure in the ankle suggests narrowed arteries and reduced blood flow, characteristic of PAD.

The ABI provides a clear assessment of the perfusion to the lower extremities, which is crucial for diagnosing PAD. A normal ABI typically ranges from 1.0 to 1.4, while values below 0.9 indicate varying degrees of PAD. It is a widely accepted and reliable method for this evaluation.

The other options do not specifically diagnose PAD. The capillary refill test assesses peripheral perfusion and could provide indications of circulatory issues but is not definitive for PAD. Pulse oximetry measures oxygen saturation but does not evaluate blood flow status in the arteries. The walking tolerance test may provide information about symptoms related to PAD but does not provide a direct assessment like the ABI. Thus, the ABI remains the pivotal test for diagnosing peripheral arterial disease effectively.