THROMBOANGIITIS-OBLITERANS AN UPDATE ON BUERGERS-DISEASE

Buerger's disease (thromboangiitis obliterans) is a nonnecrotizing vas culitis affecting small and medium-sized arteries, typically in young male smokers. The diagnosis can often be made on the basis of a carefu l history and physical examination, together with ancillary laboratory studies. Occasionally arteriography is warranted to confirm the diagn osis. The pathological findings are distinctive and distinguish this d isorder from other arterial occlusive diseases. Successful therapy is possible only with absolute abstinence from tobacco.