skip to main content

Peripheral arterial disease in diabetes — SCE Endocrinology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardDiabetesPeripheral arterial disease in diabetesSCE Endocrinology

A 61-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes has new exertional calf pain. Dorsalis pedis pulses are reduced and a plantar callus is present, but there is no ulcer. HbA1c is 63 mmol/mol, LDL cholesterol is 3.1 mmol/L and she smokes. What is the most appropriate next investigation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Handheld Doppler assessment with ankle brachial pressure index interpreted cautiously

Peripheral arterial disease should be assessed with vascular examination and Doppler testing, recognising that calcified vessels in diabetes can make ABPI falsely reassuring. D-dimer testing does not fit chronic claudication. The pearl is that pulse palpation alone can underestimate diabetic limb risk.

Reference: NICE NG19 diabetic foot guideline, NICE PAD guideline CG147