Pathophysiology

Discussion #1

Mr. K. is a 57-year-old man who consulted his physician after noticing marked leg pains while playing golf. He had previously noticed increasing fatigue and discomfort in his legs associated with moderate exercise. When sitting for extended periods with legs dangling, his legs became red, and sometimes his feet felt numb. His history indicates he smokes cigarettes and is chronically overweight. His blood cholesterol and other lipid levels are abnormal, and his physician suspects peripheral atherosclerosis as the cause of his discomfort.

Discussion Questions:

Discuss the development of atherosclerosis, including the predisposing factors in this case and the pathophysiological changes.

Discuss the complications that might develop in this patient. (Pathophysiology, Signs and Symptoms.)

Discuss the treatments for all aspects of the patient’s condition, including slowing the progress of the

atherosclerosis, maintaining circulation in the leg, and treating complications.