THROMBOANGIITIS OBLITERANS Meaning and
Definition
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Thromboangiitis obliterans, also known as Buerger's disease, is a rare inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the small and medium-sized blood vessels in the extremities, such as hands and feet. This condition is characterized by the formation of blood clots in the arteries and veins, leading to inflammation and subsequent obstruction of blood flow.
The exact cause of thromboangiitis obliterans remains unknown, but it is strongly associated with tobacco use. The disease mainly affects young to middle-aged individuals, predominantly males, with a history of heavy smoking. Thromboangiitis obliterans is believed to be an autoimmune response, as the body's immune system seems to attack and damage its own blood vessels.
Symptoms of this disorder typically include pain and tenderness in the affected limbs, which may worsen with activity and improve with rest, along with decreased blood flow manifested by coldness, discoloration, and ulcers on the hands or feet. As the disease progresses, tissue damage can occur, leading to gangrene and even the need for amputation in severe cases.
Diagnosis of thromboangiitis obliterans involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history assessment, and exclusion of other possible causes of vascular disease. Imaging techniques like angiography may be used to visualize blood vessels and identify any blood clots or narrowing areas.
Treatment for thromboangiitis obliterans primarily focuses on preventing disease progression and managing symptoms. This typically involves complete cessation of tobacco use, as continued smoking greatly exacerbates the condition. Medications like vasodilators, anti-inflammatory drugs, and pain relievers may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and improve blood flow. In advanced cases, surgical interventions like bypass procedures or amputations may be necessary.
Overall, thrombo
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Obliteration of the larger arteries and veins of a limb by thrombi, with subsequent gangrene-presenile spontaneous gangrene.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THROMBOANGIITIS OBLITERANS
Etymology of THROMBOANGIITIS OBLITERANS
The word "thromboangiitis obliterans" has a Greek and Latin origin.
"Thrombo-" derives from the Greek word "thrombos", meaning clot or lump.
"Angiitis" comes from the Greek word "angeion", meaning vessel, and the Latin suffix "-itis", denoting inflammation.
"Obliterans" stems from the Latin word "obliterare", meaning to erase or wipe out.
When combined, "thromboangiitis obliterans" refers to the inflammatory condition that causes the formation of blood clots and the blockage of small and medium-sized blood vessels, leading to tissue damage, especially in the extremities.
