Chapters authored
Buerger’s Disease: Clinical Aspects and Evidence-Based Treatments
Buerger’s disease (thromboangiitis obliterans) is a nonatherosclerotic, segmental, occlusive, and recurring progressive inflammatory form of vasculitis that most commonly affects the small- and medium-sized arteries, veins, and nerves in the upper and lower extremities. The cause is unknown, but it is most common in young men with a history of tobacco abuse. It is responsible for ischemic ulcers and extreme pain in the hands and feet. In many cases, notably in patients with the most severe presentations, there is no possibility of improving the condition with surgery (limb revascularization), and therefore, alternative therapies (e.g., sympathectomy, pharmacological agents, and many others) are used. This chapter discusses clinical aspects of Buerger’s disease and evidence-based treatment available currently.
Part of the book: Vasculitis In Practice