[Chronic lower limb ischemia--clinical symptom element of atherosclerosis--actual guideline].

Peripheral atherosclerosis is the leading cause of chronic lower limb ischemia (PAD). In European populations the disease occurs frequently. In the early stages often does not cause obvious symptoms. Since the PAD coexists with other areas of vascular activity is associated with high cardiovascular risk (myocardial infarction, cerebral stroke, sudden death). The article discusses the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the main aspects of the PAD, useful in medical practice primary care. Diagnostic strategy of patients with claudication punctuation depends on the clinical situation, the size of claudication distance and the impact this symptom on quality of life of the patient. The treatment should include modification of risk factors for atherosclerosis. Important are: smoking cessation, control of blood pressure and lipid disorders and the desire for normalization of body weight. The conservative treatment is a key consideration in antiplatelet therapy and rehabilitation.