Epidemiology

Etiology

Pathophysiology

TAO is an inflammatory, nonatherosclerotic, vasoocclusive disease affecting small and medium-sized vessels of the extremities.

Clinical features

• Migratory superficial thrombophlebitis (recurrent): often seen prior to the onset of limb ischemia
  • Tender nodules along the course of the affected vein
• Raynaud phenomenon
• Chronic or acute limb ischemia: may progress from distal to proximal vessels
  • Intermittent claudication
  • Pain at rest, cool extremities, and/or diminished or absent pulses
  • Ulceration and/or gangrene of fingertips and/or toes (digits may autoamputate)

Diagnostics

• Biopsy
  • Inflammatory intraluminal thrombi with vessel wall sparing
  • Extension into contiguous veins & nerves

Treatment