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Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

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The du Bois sign.

James H Voelpel¹, Thomas Muehlberger

¹Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery/Burn Center, BG Clinic Bergmannstrost, Merseburger Strasse 165, Halle/Saale, Germany. jhvoelpel@aol.com

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|January 26, 2011

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

The "du Bois sign," a shortened fifth finger, is often misattributed. It was described by Charles du Bois, not Paul Dubois, and has limited diagnostic value.

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Area of Science:

Medical History
Dermatology
Genetics

Background:

The
du Bois sign
is medically defined as a shortened fifth finger, historically associated with congenital syphilis, Down syndrome, and other congenital conditions.
Current medical literature and dictionaries often incorrectly attribute this eponym to French gynecologist Paul Dubois.
This highlights a common issue in medical eponyms, where attribution and precise definition can be obscured over time.

Discussion:

A thorough literature analysis reveals that the eponym originates from observations by Swiss dermatologist Charles du Bois concerning congenital syphilis.
The term's definition in modern texts is often unclear, leading to potential misinterpretation.
Another fifth finger sign is closely linked to the du Bois sign, further complicating its distinct diagnostic utility.

Key Insights:

The
du Bois sign
is correctly attributed to Swiss dermatologist Charles du Bois, not Paul Dubois.
The sign's association with congenital syphilis is a key historical and diagnostic point.
Despite historical associations, the du Bois sign demonstrates limited diagnostic value in modern clinical practice.

Outlook:

Further research into the historical accuracy of medical eponyms is warranted to ensure correct attribution and understanding.
Clarifying the diagnostic criteria and prevalence of the du Bois sign in diverse populations could refine its clinical relevance.
Investigating the genetic and developmental underpinnings of shortened fifth finger may offer new insights beyond eponymical associations.