Thromboangiitis obliterans
(Buerger's disease)Objective : To show the definition, etiology and management of Thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger's disease)
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Etiology
There is a very strong association with smoking
Clinical manifestations
Thromboangiitis obliterans typically occurs in heavy smokers between 20 and 35 years of age of both sexes. Unlike in atherosclerosis, the upper extremities are often involved and there is frequently a history of migratory superficial phlebitis. Associated symptoms include Raynaud's phenomenon & foot claudication is particularly characteristic.Exacerbations with smoking and remissions after abstinence from tobacco are typical of thromboangiitis obliterans.
Treatment
Smoking should be stoppedRelief of pain using narcotics.
Dorsal or lumbar sympathectomy.
Anticoagulants
Antiplatelets
Pentoxifylline
Arterial reconstruction is usually impossible because of the distal nature of the disease.
When gangrene occurs, amputation at the lowest possible level is indicated.