Final answer:
Claudication, specifically intermittent claudication, is the result of atherosclerosis of the peripheral arteries, commonly as part of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). It manifests as leg pain that occurs during walking and resolves with rest.
Step-by-step explanation:
The result of atherosclerosis of the peripheral arteries is most often intermittent claudication, which is a classic symptom of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). PAD is a condition where the arteries that carry blood to the arms and legs become narrowed due to plaque buildup. This can lead to symptoms such as leg pain when walking, that typically resolves with rest, as well as skin ulcers, bluish skin, cold skin, or poor nail and hair growth in the affected limbs. Up to half of all PAD cases may be asymptomatic, making it essential to diagnose and treat underlying atherosclerosis to prevent severe complications such as heart attacks or strokes.
While PAD involves the arteries in the peripheral parts of the body, such as the legs, it is important to note that atherosclerosis can also cause complications elsewhere. For example, when it affects the coronary arteries, it can lead to angina or myocardial infarction; when it affects cerebral arteries, it can result in a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or stroke; and when it involves renal arteries, it may lead to renal injury.
The underlying mechanisms for diseases like coronary artery disease, stroke, and PAD involve atherosclerosis caused by risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, and high cholesterol. The management of these conditions is critical to prevent disabling or life-threatening events.