Role of antiplatelet therapy in cardiovascular disease III: Peripheral arterial disease.

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common manifestation of the atherosclerotic disease process, typically affecting vascular beds in the lower extremities. In its most severe form PAD may lead to limb amputation. Patients with PAD are also at increased cross-risk of thrombosis at coronary and cerebrovascular sites. However, despite its prevalence and severity, PAD is underdiagnosed and undertreated. In this collection of case studies, the role of the antiplatelet agent clopidogrel in current treatment strategies for the management of PAD is highlighted.