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Monckeberg's arteriosclerosis
Classification and external resources
Microphotography of arterial wall with calcified (violet colour) atherosclerotic plaque (haematoxillin & eosin stain)
ICD-9	440.20
MeSH	D050380

A. Pelvic and lower extremity radiograph shows extensive calcification of the femoral arteries. B. Translumbar aortography shows near-total obstruction of the femoral arteries.

Monckeberg's arteriosclerosis, also called medial calcific sclerosis, is a form of arteriosclerosis or vessel hardening, where calcium deposits form in the middle layer of the walls of medium sized vessels (the tunica media).^[1]

It is named for Johann Georg Mönckeberg.^[2][3]

[edit] Presentation

This human medial calcification, Mönckeberg’s sclerosis, is common and occurs independently of atherosclerosis. It is more frequent in people over 50 years of age and diabetics. In advanced cases of Monckeberg's medial calcific sclerosis, vessels may become rigid and lose their distensibility.

[edit] Associated conditions

It is usually more benign than other forms of arteriosclerosis,^[4] but can still be associated with important medical conditions. Monckeberg's arteriosclerosis is most commonly found in the radial or ulnar arteries causing "pipestem" arteries, which will present as a bounding pulse at the end of the calcific zone.

It is associated with trophic foot ulceration and peripheral artery occlusive disease.

Its presence predicts risk of cardiovascular events and leg amputation in diabetic patients.

Mönckeberg's medial arteriosclerosis was diagnosed in 34 of 297 patients referred for pelvic radiography for a variety of reasons. It is strongly associated with metabolic bone disease, especially osteoporosis, whether induced by corticosteroids or arising spontaneously.

[edit] References