Vasospastic diseases. Diagnosis and management.

Vasospastic disease represents a group of diseases in which the common link is spasm. The causes of the individual disorders may differ slightly but a history of exacerbation of the symptoms by cold, emotional stimuli, or caffeine usually will be elicited. Ulceration and gangrene do not usually occur. Treatment involves patient education, reassurance, and the use of oral vasodilating agents.