Widespread and Sudden Occlusion of the Small Arteries of the Hands and Feet

Abstract

This paper analyzes the syndrome of symmetrical digital gangrene that results from various pathologic processes. If a group of such patients is closely studied, it is apparent that among those who have suffered a sudden and widespread occlusion of the small arteries of the hands and feet some may be grouped apart by reason of the single nature of the attack and the good prognosis. Eleven such examples seen by the author are described and their differential diagnosis, causation, and treatment discussed.