Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger Disease)

Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger Disease) is a rare condition that affects the small and medium-sized blood vessels, primarily in the arms and legs. It causes inflammation and clotting inside these vessels, which can reduce or block blood flow. This leads to symptoms like pain, ulcers, and tissue damage in the fingers and toes. The disease mainly affects young adults who smoke, and the exact cause is linked to tobacco use. Over time, the reduced blood flow can cause serious problems such as infections or even the need for amputation if untreated.

Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger Disease) is a nonatherosclerotic, segmental inflammatory disease of the small and medium-sized arteries and veins, characterized by intraluminal thrombosis and vessel wall inflammation. It predominantly affects young male smokers and is strongly associated with tobacco exposure. The pathogenesis involves an immune-mediated response leading to endothelial injury, inflammation, and thrombus formation without significant atherosclerosis. Clinically, it presents with distal extremity ischemia, claudication, rest pain, and ischemic ulcers. The disease can progress to gangrene and amputation if smoking cessation is not achieved. It is distinguished from other vasculitides by its strong tobacco association and segmental vascular involvement.