Ainhum

Case contributed by Kalyan S Chilwant
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Leg swelling secondary to deep venous thrombosis. Incidental finding.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

There is narrowing of the right fifth toe distal proximal phalanx, suggestive of ainhum.

Photo

An incomplete constriction band can be appreciated in on the internal side of the fifth toe. Edema is due to deep venous thrombosis, for which the patient came for investigation.

Case Discussion

The groove in ainhum classically begins at the internal side of base of the fifth toe. In this case, the groove is incomplete and so is the osteolysis. The osteolysis can be best appreciated when compared with the contralateral side. The condition is often bilateral, but can also occur unilaterally.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.