|Back to article| Thromboangiitis obliterans is a rare disease
in which blood vessels of the hands and feet become blocked.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors Thromboangiitis obliterans
(Buerger's disease) is caused by vasculitis (inflammation of the
blood vessels). The blood vessels of the hands and feet are
especially affected. They tighten or become totally blocked. The
average age when symptoms begin is around 35 years. Woman and
older adults are affected less often. Thromboangiitis obliterans
mostly affects men ages 20 to 40 who have a history of heavy
smoking or chewing tobacco. Only 1 out of 10 patients are women.
The condition may also be related to a history of Raynaud's
disease. This disorder is very uncommon in children, but it may
occur in children with autoimmune diseases. Note: Symptoms may
worsen with exposure to cold or with emotional stress. Usually,
two or more limbs are affected. Signs and tests The hands or
feet may have large, red, tender blood vessels. The pulse in the
affected hands or