Ainhum: treatment with intralesional steroids.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Vascular Surgery
• Pathology

Background:

• Ainhum is a rare, idiopathic condition characterized by constrictive bands, typically on the digits.
• It can lead to progressiveautoamputation of the affected digit.
• The exact etiology remains unclear, but it is associated with genetic and environmental factors.

Observation:

• A case of Ainhum affecting a digit is presented.
• The patient experienced significant pain and progressive constriction.
• A fibrotic band was the primary pathological feature observed.

Findings:

• Intralesional corticosteroid injection was administered to the fibrotic band.
• The injection resulted in rapid symptomatic relief, including pain reduction.
• Partial resolution of the fibrotic band was observed following the intervention.

Implications:

• Intralesional steroid injection may be a viable therapeutic option for symptomatic Ainhum.
• This approach could offer an alternative to surgical intervention in select cases.
• Further research is warranted to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of this treatment modality for Ainhum.