Ankle--Brachial Index: A Marker of Both Peripheral Arterial Disease and Systemic Atherosclerosis As Well As a Predictor of Vascular Events.

The authors reflect on the use of the ankle-brachial index in assessing a patient's risk of developing peripheral arterial disease, vascular events and systemic atherosclerosis. They suggest that the measurement of the index in patients with subclinical peripheral arterial disease allows for the initiation of preventive measures. They argue that the measurement of the ankle-brachial index is an opportunity to initiate vascular risk factor management and the assessment of other arterial beds.