Primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (pachydermoperiostosis): a case report

Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy is characterized by digital clubbing and periosteal reaction of long bones. Most cases are associated with malignancy or other conditions such as congenital heart disease, liver cirrhosis, pulmonary fibrosis, biliary atresia, and gastrointestinal polyps. We report a 19-year-old man presenting with arthritis, broadening of the fingers and clubbing of the fingers and toes for the previous 3 years. The ankles and knees were swollen. X-rays showed periosteal apposition. The search for a secondary cause remained negative. In cases of arthralgia/arthritis together with clubbed fingers, consideration must be given to hypertrophic osteoarthropathy. The primary or idiopathic form is rare and has a good prognosis.