An Account of Recent Data on Smoking-Related Buerger’s Disease and Progression to Necrosis

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this review article is to briefly synthesize the most current information and data regarding smoking-induced Buerger’s disease, its occasional progression to gangrene, and its treatment and prognosis A literature search was conducted using Pub Med and Medscape databases for article published between 2013 and 2016 using keywords relevant to the objective of the review. After eliminating irrelevant results, the authors read each article in its entirety to determine applicability for inclusion. A more general web search for synthesis articles and government documents was also conducted. Results: Buerger’s disease is much more common among males than females and exhibits a dose-response relationship with frequency and duration of smoking. Early diagnosis, successful smoking cessation, and proper nursing care are associated with good prognosis. In cases where patients develop gangrenous necrosis associated with Buerger’s disease, prognosis is poorer. However amputation is not inevitable. Amputation is associated with complex infection and evidence of occlusion in the main arteries. It is concluded particularly a may allow tobacco companies to claim that products are not harmful. Buerger’s disease, Thromboangiitis obliterans, tobacco use.