Definition
Thromboangiitis obliterans is a rare disease in which blood vessels of the hands and feet become obstructed.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger’s disease) is caused by vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels).
The blood vessels of the hands and feet are especially affected, becoming constricted or totally blocked. This reduces blood flow to the hand and foot tissues, resulting in pain and eventually damage.
Thromboangiitis obliterans affects about 6 of every 10,000 people. It almost always affects men ages 20 to 40 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.
Pictures & Images
Thromboangiites obliterans
Thromboangiitis obliterans is a disorder that leads to obstruction of the blood vessels of the hands and feet. The blood vessels become constricted or totally obstructed because of the inflammation and clots which reduces the availability of blood to the tissues. Thromboangiitis obliterans almost always affects men, 20 to 40 years old, who have a history of smoking or chewing tobacco.
Circulatory system
Blood used by the body is brought back to the heart and lungs by the veins of the body. Once the blood has gathered more oxygen from the lungs, it is pumped back out to the body through the arteries.
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Thromboangiitis obliterans: Overview, Causes
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Thromboangiitis obliterans: Symptoms & Signs,Diagnosis & Tests
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Thromboangiitis obliterans: Treatment
Review Date : 10/27/2008
Reviewed By : Neil J. Gonter, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, and private practice specializing in Rheumatology at Rheumatology Associates of North Jersey, Teaneck, NJ. Review provided by Verimed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
