Leriche’s syndrome is a specific form of peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD). In this condition, the abdominal aorta (usually just before it divides into the leg arteries) becomes narrowed or blocked. Medical professionals refer to this as an aortic bifurcation occlusion.
This leads to a severely reduced blood flow to the legs, meaning muscles and tissues no longer receive enough oxygen — a condition known as ischemia. For affected individuals, this results in pain, limited mobility, and in advanced stages, a significantly reduced quality of life.
A warning sign is leg pain while walking that subsides when at rest — a phenomenon known as “window shopper’s disease” (intermittent claudication). Common complaints include:
- Pain in the buttocks, thighs, or calves while walking
- Numbness or sensory disturbances in the legs or toes
- Cold legs or pale skin color
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- In severe cases: Poorly healing wounds on the feet
Not all symptoms appear at once — especially in early stages, Leriche’s syndrome often goes unnoticed.
The main cause in most cases is arteriosclerosis — the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. Deposits of fat, calcium, and connective tissue gradually narrow the vessels until they become completely blocked. People at particular risk include those with:
Age also plays a role: Leriche’s syndrome typically occurs in people over 50, with men being more commonly affected than women.
Anyone noticing early signs should consult a doctor promptly — ideally a vascular specialist such as an angiologist or an vascular surgeon. Diagnosis typically involves several steps:
- Physical examination, especially checking the pulses in the legs
- Blood pressure measurement in arms and legs (ankle-brachial index)
- Doppler ultrasound to visualize blood flow
- Imaging techniques such as CT angiography or MRI angiography to precisely locate the narrowing
Early diagnosis helps prevent complications such as worsening ischemia or the risk of thrombosis.
The treatment approach depends on the severity of the condition. The goal is to restore blood flow to the legs and relieve symptoms. Options include:
Conservative treatment:
- Medications for blood thinning
- Blood pressure and blood sugar control
- Smoking cessation and dietary changes
- Walking training to stimulate circulation
Interventional or surgical treatment:
- Balloon dilation (angioplasty) possibly combined with stent placement
- Bypass surgery to create a vascular detour
- In severe cases: surgical intervention on the aorta, such as placing a vascular prosthesis
Specialists for the treatment of Leriche’s syndrome include vascular surgeons, angiologists, and radiologists experienced in interventional therapy.
If left untreated, Leriche’s syndrome typically worsens over time. Risks include:
With early treatment and consistent lifestyle changes, symptoms can be significantly reduced and mobility improved. Even after surgical intervention, regular follow-up care is crucial to prevent recurrence.
Leriche’s syndrome is a serious but highly treatable vascular disease. If you experience leg pain while walking, cold sensations, or numbness, it should be taken seriously. Early diagnosis and individualized therapy help prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Don’t hesitate to schedule a specialist examination at the first signs — your health and mobility will thank you.
Glossary
- Aorta: Main artery that carries blood from the heart to the body
- Arteriosclerosis: Hardening and narrowing of the arteries
- Ischemia: Reduced blood supply to tissues, usually due to narrowed vessels
- Hypertension: High blood pressure
- PAOD: Peripheral arterial occlusive disease — a circulatory disorder in the limbs
