Thromboangiitis Obliterans is a rare disease that causes occlusion of the arteries in the hands and feet. It almost always affects men aged 20-40 with a history of cigarettes smoking or other tobacco use. It was first described by Von Winiwarter in 1879 in a patient with the affliction. It was later described by Leo Buerger, who documented and provided a full description of the disease. For this reason, it is commonly referred to as Buerger’s Disease.
The disease is caused by an inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly those of the hands and feet. When the vessels become totally occluded, a lack of blood flow to the affected area occurs. This can cause an immense amount of pain, and can lead to gangrene and ulcerations of the fingertips and/or toes.
In those with thromboangiitis obliterans, symptoms may include cold hands or feet, with the extremity appearing pale, red, or blue. Symptoms most commonly affect two or more extremities, but may also affect only one. There is usually pain in the affected limb, which may range from burning or tingling at rest to acute, severe pain. Symptoms are usually worsened by stress or cold. Thromboangiitis Obliterans is commonly seen in association with Raynaud’s Disease. The incidence is quite low, affecting approximately 6 in 10,000 people.
Treatment for thromboangiitis obliterans revolves around symptoms, as there is no cure for the disease. Increasing blood flow to the area may be achieved with vasodilators such as oral medications or nitroglycerin patches. Adding warmth and gently exercising the area can also increase blood flow.
Prevention of thromboangiitis obliterans is key to treatment. Quitting smoking and the use of tobacco products can prevent occlusions all together in many patients. Removing stress and avoiding the cold can also help.
The most serious complication of thromboangiitis obliterans is gangrene. The lack of blood flow to the hands and/or feet can cause the tissue to become gangrenous and die. If not cared for properly, this tissue can lead to serious infections, and possibly sepsis and death. Therefore, it is essential that thromboangiitis obliterans be cared for aggressively by the treating physician.
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