A resting ankle-brachial index of 1.50 indicates which condition?

A resting ankle-brachial index (ABI) of 1.50 is indicative of incompressible vessels in a lower extremity, typically associated with conditions like heavily calcified arteries due to advanced atherosclerosis or diabetes. In a healthy vascular system, the ABI value tends to fall within the range of 0.90 to 1.40, which suggests normal blood flow and vascular health. Values above 1.40 are generally considered abnormal and suggest that the arteries may be non-compressible.

When discussing the ABI, it is important to note that a typical reading below 0.90 is often a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), indicating narrowing or blockage in the arteries. Conversely, a reading that exceeds 1.40 raises concerns about vessel compressibility, signaling that the arteries are too stiff for conventional measurements, making it difficult to gauge blood flow accurately.

Understanding these nuances aids in the diagnosis of vascular conditions, highlighting the importance of ABI readings and their interpretation in clinical practice.