From our Glossary—Words beginning with "L" through "P"

You can view these terms and others used in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease on our web site. We've made them easy-to-understand to help you in talking with health care professionals. Each newsletter will cover a section from our glossary.

Lipids: Another term for fats that can be broken down into fatty acids.

Lipoproteins: Proteins that transport cholesterol and other fats to and from cells. LDL is the subtype most dangerous for peripheral arterial disease. HDL is beneficial in preventing atherosclerosis.

Non-invasive: Medical procedures or exams which do not involve needles, dye or x-ray.

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): A common disorder that occurs in the artery segments of the non-cardiac circulatory system (legs, pelvis, neck, brain). The artery wall linings slowly become narrowed and rough clots formed due to built up cholesterol or plaque. It has major implications on a patient's life due to association with blockages in the heart and brain with potential for death from heart attack and stroke.

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD): Diseases of the veins, arteries and lymphatic circulatory system in the legs, pelvis, neck, brain (all areas but the heart) sometimes used synonymously for PAD.

Plaque: The built up material on the inner lining of an artery made up of cholesterol and fatty substances.