thromboangiitis obliterans
Pronunciation: throm-bo-an-jee-EYE-tis ob-LIT-er-anz
Inflammatory vascular disease primarily affecting small and medium arteries of the extremities, strongly associated with tobacco use. Also known as Buerger's disease.
Full Definition
Thromboangiitis obliterans, commonly known as Buerger's disease, is a non-atherosclerotic, inflammatory vascular disorder that primarily affects small and medium-sized arteries and veins of the extremities. The condition is characterized by segmental thrombotic occlusions with inflammatory infiltrates in the vessel walls and is strongly associated with tobacco use, particularly in young male smokers. Angiographic findings include characteristic segmental occlusions with abrupt cutoffs, extensive collateral circulation with 'corkscrew' appearance, and involvement of both upper and lower extremity vessels. The disease pattern typically spares larger proximal vessels and shows a predilection for distal circulation.
Usage
Usage note: Buerger's disease requires apostrophe and capital B. Thromboangiitis is one word, not hyphenated.
In Context
- "The angiographic pattern of distal vessel occlusions with corkscrew collaterals is characteristic of thromboangiitis obliterans." — Vascular imaging report