Nonatherosclerotic Vascular Diseases and Vasospastic Conditions: Vasospastic Disorders (Part 3 of a 3-Part Series)

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is the primary underlying disease in over 90% of those with peripheral vascular disease. The management of its various forms is the predominant focus of clinicians; however, a small but significant subset of patients with vascular disease are affected by illnesses or conditions quite dissimilar from arteriosclerosis. The presentation, course, and management of these entities differ tremendously from that of atherosclerotic vascular disease; therefore, a sound basis of knowledge in these disorders is essential. For these reasons, a timely, 3-part review of nonatherosclerotic disease and vasospastic conditions has been prepared. Part 1 focused on inflammatory conditions, and Part 2 discussed noninflammatory conditions. The final section covers vasospastic conditions. The detailed discussion of these topics has been designed to provide valuable and interesting, but not cumbersome, information for those in any medical specialty.