[Value of lower limb arteriography in iatrogenic ergotism. A report on a case (author's transl)]

The authors report a further case of ergotamine poisoning with acute ischemia of the four limbs. Arteriography was carried out during the course of the vascular accident and at a later period when clinical signs had disappeared. Arteriography confirmed the presence of diffuse vascular spasm appearing as thin filiform arteries without any signs of a collateral circulation. Normal conditions were restored in the iliac, femoral, and leg arteries after stopping ergotamine administration. Arteriography appears to be of great value when there is any doubt during the acute clinical stage, in order to assist diagnosis and to confirm and verify the integrity of the vascular network at a later stage.