Decreasing tobacco use promotes ulcer healing in a patient with Buerger's disease

Abstract

Tobacco cessation remains the mainstay treatment for Buerger's Disease; however, limited research exists examining the effect of decreased tobacco use rather than cessation in improving symptoms. We describe a case of a patient with Buerger's disease who experienced ulcer healing and pain improvement through reduced tobacco use.Physicians should be aware that decreasing tobacco use and avoiding secondhand smoke may lead to the improvement of Buerger's disease symptoms even in the absence of tobacco cessation. Vasodilator therapy may also play a role in improving symptoms.