[Therapeutic use of prostacyclin in cardiovascular pathology]

After a brief survey of the already well known functions of tromboxane and prostacyclin both in physiological and pathological conditions, the data found in the literature on the therapeutical use of prostacyclin are discussed. The positive results obtained in the treatment of arteriosclerosis obliterans of the lower limbs, of Raynaud's syndrome, of ischaemic stroke and of ischaemic heart diseases, together with the very modest side effects of prostacyclin, suggest to continue with prostacyclin therapy even if its mechanism of action is not yet clear.