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Thromboangiitis obliterans

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Illustrations

Thromboangiites obliterans
Thromboangiites obliterans
Circulatory system
Circulatory system

Alternative Names    Return to top

Buerger's disease

Definition    Return to top

Thromboangiitis obliterans is a disease that causes obstruction of the blood vessels of the hands and feet.

Causes    Return to top

Thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger's disease) is caused by vasculitis, which is an inflammation of blood vessels. Inflammation is irritation with presence of extra immune cells.

The blood vessels of the hands and feet are especially affected, becoming constricted or totally blocked. This reduces blood flow to the tissues of hands and feet, resulting in pain and eventually damage.

Thromboangiitis obliterans affects approximately 6 out of every 10,000 people. It almost always affects men 20 to 40 years of age who have a history of smoking or chewing tobacco.

The condition may also be associated with a history of Raynaud's disease. This disorder is very uncommon in children, but may occur in those with autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms    Return to top

Note: Symptoms may worsen with exposure to cold or with emotional stress. Usually, two or more limbs are affected.

Exams and Tests    Return to top

The hands or feet may show enlarged, red, tender blood vessels. Pulse may be decreased or absent in the affected extremity.

Blockage of blood vessels in the extremity may show on:

Final confirmation of the diagnosis may require biopsy of the blood vessel.

Treatment    Return to top

There is no cure for thromboangiitis obliterans. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms.

The patient must stop smoking if the affected extremity is to be saved. Cold temperatures and other conditions that reduce circulation to the extremities should be avoided. Attempts to increase circulation may include applying warmth and gently exercising the affected area.

Surgical sympathectomy (cutting the nerves to the area) may help control pain. Aspirin and vasodilators may also used. Amputation of the extremity may be necessary if infection or extensive tissue death occurs.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Symptoms of thromboangiitis obliterans may disappear if the person stops tobacco use. For some, amputation is unavoidable.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate thromboangiitis obliterans is present, if symptoms worsen despite treatment, or if new symptoms develop.

Prevention    Return to top

Those with a history of Raynaud's disease or thromboangiitis obliterans should avoid all tobacco use.

Update Date: 11/29/2006

Updated by: Mark James Borigini, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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