What does a low ABI value typically indicate?

A low Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) value is indicative of potential peripheral artery disease (PAD). The ABI is a simple, non-invasive test that compares the blood pressure in the patient's ankle with the blood pressure in their arm. A low ABI value suggests that the blood flow to the lower extremities is significantly reduced, usually due to arterial blockages or narrowing caused by atherosclerosis. This impaired circulation may result from the presence of PAD, which is a common condition that affects the arteries in the legs.

In contrast, conditions like varicose veins do not typically cause a low ABI because they primarily involve issues with venous circulation, rather than arterial blood flow. A normal arterial condition, represented by a normal ABI value, would indicate that blood flow is adequate and there are no significant blockages in the arteries. Lastly, while an increased risk of aneurysm is a serious concern, it is not directly indicated by a low ABI, which focuses more on flow restrictions within the arteries rather than the structural integrity of those arteries.