ABI stands for Ankle Brachial Index. The test involves measuring blood pressure in the arms and legs. Normally, blood pressure should be same in all parts of the body. Discrepancy in arm and leg blood pressure indicates blockage in the arteries, which is usually due to atherosclerosis.
This test is used to detect PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease). It is ordered commonly in patients who have leg pain with walking, diabetes mellitus, history of heart attacks, high cholesterol, are more than 65 years of age, and have used tobacco.