Leriche syndrome: Importance of diagnostic imaging for early detection and management

Abstract

Leriche syndrome, or aortoiliac occlusive disease, is a condition caused by atherosclerosis, affecting the distal abdominal aorta and iliac arteries, and potentially extending to the femoropopliteal vessels. Clinically, it presents with symptoms such as bilateral intermittent claudication, ischemic pain, and absence of femoral pulses. However, some patients may remain asymptomatic due to the development of collateral networks, complicating early diagnosis and increasing the risk of severe complications. This case involves an 86-year-old patient with aortoiliac occlusive disease and acute thrombosis, diagnosed using computed tomography angiography. This imaging technique allowed for the identification of the extent of occlusion, assessment of collateral circulation, and evaluation of distal patency, thus guiding surgical intervention.