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Foreign body - hand

Case contributed by Maulik S Patel
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

History of penetrating injury to the dorsum of hand by thorn a month ago. Complaining of persistent pain and swelling. Normal radiograph.

Patient Data

Age: 65 years
Gender: Male
ultrasound

There are at least two linear echogenic structures on the dorsal aspect of the 3rd metacarpophalangeal joint. One is intra-articular; measuring 3 mm. The other is deep to the ulnar side of the sagittal band; measuring 2 mm. The adjacent proximal phalanx base cortex shows erosions. 3rd metacarpophalangeal joint shows effusion with tiny echoes as well as synovial thickening.

Flexor and extensor tendons are intact. There is no flexor tenosynovitis.

Case Discussion

Findings of foreign body induced synovitis of 3rd metacarpophalangeal joint.

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