Popliteal artery entrapment masquerading as asthma.

Abstract

Patients don't always report symptoms that seem unimportant to them. Symptoms that don't respond to routine medical management, or that can't be fully explained by the signs observed, warrant a closer look and further questioning. Although the condition is uncommon, young athletes can develop functional popliteal artery entrapment. Diagnostic studies include examination of dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses, Doppler ultrasonography, and arteriography. Treatment of functional popliteal artery entrapment usually includes surgical exploration, release of the popliteal artery, and a myomectomy of the medial gastrocnemius head.