Peripheral arterial diseases (PADs) refer to all arterial conditions except those affecting the coronary arteries and the aorta. It’s important to distinguish this term from ‘peripheral artery disease’ (often used for lower extremity artery disease).

In addition to lower extremities, other areas like the carotid and vertebral arteries, upper extremities, mesenteric, and renal arteries can also be affected, primarily due to atherosclerosis. These collectively form the family of PADs. PADs can also affect other areas due to atherosclerosis.