Information on Buerger's Disease

Buerger's disease is a condition that causes blood vessels in the hands and feet to become clogged.

Causes

Vasculitis, an inflammation of blood vessels, causes Buerger's disease. Inflammation is characterized by the presence of extra immune cells. The blood vessels in the hands and feet are particularly vulnerable, becoming constricted or completely blocked. This reduces blood flow to the tissues of the hands and feet, causing pain and, in the long run, damage. Smoking aggravates both the symptoms and the disease process.

Symptoms

The following are the symptoms of thromboangiitis obliterans, also known as Buerger's disease: Pain, burning, and tingling in the hands and feet Walking causes pain in the legs, ankles, or feet (intermittent claudication) Hands and feet with skin changes or ulcers Hands and feet may be pale, red, or bluish in color. Hands and feet may become cold. When exposed to a cold or under emotional stress, the symptoms may worsen. Two or more limbs are usually affected.

 Diagnosis

Blood vessels in the hands and feet may be enlarged, red, and tender. In the affected extremity, the pulse may be reduced or absent. Blood vessel blockage in the extremity may manifest as: An extremity angiography/arteriography or An extremity Doppler ultrasound A biopsy of the blood vessel may be required for final confirmation of the diagnosis.

Treatment

Thromboangiitis obliterans have no cure. The goal is to keep symptoms under control. The patient must discontinue smoking. Avoiding cold temperatures and other conditions that reduce circulation to the extremities. Attempts to increase circulation may include applying heat to the affected area and gently exercising it. Surgical sympathectomy (cutting the nerves to the area) may aid in pain management. If infection or extensive tissue death occurs, amputation of the extremity may be required.

Prevention

Those who have had Raynaud's disease or thromboangiitis obliterans should avoid using tobacco at all costs. If symptoms suggest thromboangiitis obliterans, if symptoms worsen despite treatment, or if new symptoms develop, consult a doctor.