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Peripheral artery disease — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateInternal Medicine (chronic management)Peripheral artery diseaseUSMLE Step 3

A 65-year-old man has calf pain after walking two blocks that resolves with rest. He smokes and has diabetes. Dorsalis pedis pulses are reduced. Ankle-brachial index is 0.72. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: A — Start supervised exercise therapy and cardiovascular risk reduction

Claudication from PAD is managed initially with supervised exercise, smoking cessation, statin therapy, antiplatelet therapy when appropriate, and risk-factor control.

Reference: ACC/AHA Peripheral Artery Disease Guideline