[Ergotism of the locomotor apparatus--a sometimes forgotten diagnosis?]

The alcaloids from rye-ergot are known and used for their vasoconstrictive properties, which can induce secondary ergotism. The extremities will be particularly involved. Vasoconstriction will also concern the gastrointestinal tract as well as the peripheric and the central nervous system, possibly with neuro-psychiatry symptoms. Cardiac and renal involvement has been described. Migraine, thrombosis prophylaxis and obstetrical situations are the most frequent therapeutic indications. Precise patient history, clinical and the typical angiological findings are necessary for diagnosis. The importance of an early diagnosis is emphasized. The responsible agent can then be stopped with thorough in-time vasodilatating treatment, and restitution will occur. Three cases are reported. The patients were referred to the rheumato-orthopedic clinic because of limbs claims. They suffered from different grades of ergotism, and one had to be amputated at the right hand. The following discussion is based on a review of the literature.