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Buerger's disease physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1];Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Hadeel Maksoud M.D.[2]

Overview

Overview

Common physical examination findings of Buerger’s disease include pallor, edema, swelling, ulceration and gangrene of the distal extremities.

Physical Examination

Physical Examination

Physical examination of patients with Buerger’s disease is usually remarkable for pallor, edema, swelling, ulceration and gangrene of the distal extremities.

Appearance of the Patient

  • Patients with Buerger’s disease usually appear distressed and in pain.

Vital Signs

  • Low-grade fever may be present and indicates a superimposed infection

Skin

Lungs

  • Pulmonary examination of patients is usually consistent with a smoker’s lung and is not directly affected by Buerger’s disease

Extremities

  • Tender nodules along the veins may be felt and may indicate phlebitis
  • Pallor
  • Rubor
  • Cyanosis
  • Dark discoloration
  • Ulceration
  • Edema
  • Pedal pulses may or may not be intact bilaterally
Source:jhmi.edu, demonstrates gangrene of the digits with autoamputation of the left middle distal phalanx.[1]


References

References

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