[Primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy as a rare cause of joint pain]

Primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (HOA) is a rare cause ofjoint pain. The diagnosis is often delayed, due to mild complaints. However, finger clubbing combined with joint pain should suggest considering HOA in the diagnosis. The progression of toes and fingertips widening is slow and can be overlooked by a patient. It is common that patient seeks physician's aid only when the joint pain occurs. The presented case is an example of delayed diagnosis. Due to the fact that secondary HOA coexists with some diseases associated with serious prognosis it is recommended to exclude other possible causes before diagnosing primary HOA. Some clues, like the age of disease onset or positive family history allow the diagnosis of primary HOA with high probability. This case report contains clinical symptoms and new diagnostic criteria, differential diagnosis, and possible complications.