Buerger's disease, also known as thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO), is a non-atherosclerotic, inflammatory occlusive disease that predominantly affects small- and medium-sized arteries and veins of the ... Buerger disease is usually first seen in the feet. It may eventually affect the blood vessels of the hand.

Understanding the Context

Blood clots may form in the small veins of the arms and legs. People who get Buerger disease almost always smoke cigarettes or use other forms of tobacco, such as chewing tobacco. This disease was first reported by Buerger in 1908, who described a disease in which the characteristic pathologic findings — acute inflammation and thrombosis (clotting) of arteries and veins — affected the hands and feet. Thromboangiitis obliterans, also known as Buerger disease (English / ˈbɜːrɡər /; German: [ˈbʏʁɡɐ]) or Winiwarter-Buerger disease, is a recurring progressive inflammation and thrombosis (clotting) of small and medium arteries and veins of the hands and feet.

Key Insights

Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO), also called Buerger disease, is a nonatherosclerotic, segmental, inflammatory disease that most commonly affects the small to medium-sized arteries and veins of the extremities (upper and lower) [1-3]. What Is Buerger’s Disease? Buerger’s disease is a rare illness that inflames and blocks blood vessels in your arms and legs. This stops blood flow and leads to clots that affect your hands and... Buerger disease causes the blood vessels to narrow and severely limits the blood flow to the area, usually in the hands and feet.

Final Thoughts

It's a rare disorder that can’t be prevented. Buerger's disease causes blockages in the blood vessels of your feet and hands. Learn about symptoms and treatment. Buerger’s disease (also known as thromboangiitis obliterans) affects blood vessels in the body, most commonly in the arms and legs. Blood vessels swell, which can prevent blood flow, causing clots to form. This can lead to pain, tissue damage, and even gangrene (the death or decay of body tissues).

1 In some cases, amputation may be required. 2