Which physical finding is commonly associated with peripheral vascular disease?

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Reduced arterial blood flow to the legs causes trophic skin changes. Shiny, hairless skin is a classic sign of chronic arterial insufficiency because hair follicles atrophy when perfusion is impaired and the skin becomes thin and smooth. You may also find a cool extremity with diminished or absent pulses. This set of findings helps differentiate arterial disease from other conditions: jaundice points to liver or biliary issues, petechiae reflect small-vessel bleeding or platelet problems, and hives are an allergic reaction.