[Discrete distal gangrene].

The authors present their statistical findings from 114 cases of discrete distal gangrene. They stress the importance of a rigorous methodology to detect mechanical causes from the thoracic outlet syndrome and immunological causes, predominantly scleroderma, especially in women. It is important not to overlook blood diseases nor those cases which are a presentation of underlying cancer. Finally, the iatrogenic cause is now well known. Treatment depends on the causes of this distal lesion. However, in cases of severe connective tissue disease, the use of plasmapheresis is beginning to give interesting results.