Gastrointestinal vascular ischemia caused by ergotamine.

In the investigation of abdominal pain due to ergotism, arteriography will show vascular abnormalities similar to those observed peripherally in this disorder. Ergotism is rare, and failure to diagnose it will result in ineffectual therapy. In the majority of situations, ergotism can usually be successfully treated by withdrawal alone. In situations of threatened limb or organ loss, sodium nitroprusside appears to rapidly reverse the vasospasm due to ergotism and is likely the therapy of choice.