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Isolated tuberculosis of metacarpal bone in a 3 year-old child
El Mouhtadi Aghoutane1, Tarik Salama1, Redouane El Fezazi1
1Department of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, CHU Mohamed VI, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University Kadi Ayyad, Marrakech, Maroc.
Insights
Primary tuberculosis osteomyelitis of the metacarpal bone is rare, especially in young children. This case highlights diagnostic challenges and successful treatment with anti-tubercular drugs.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Primary tuberculosis osteomyelitis of the metacarpal bone is an uncommon condition.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, particularly in young children, due to non-specific symptoms.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old child presented with an 8-month history of swelling on the dorsal aspect of her right hand.
- Radiographic examination revealed an expansile, cystic, and lytic lesion of the little finger metacarpal bone.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed tuberculosis as the cause of the osteomyelitis.
- No associated pulmonary tuberculosis or lymphadenopathy was detected.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of pediatric hand swellings with lytic bone lesions.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate anti-tubercular therapy are crucial for successful management and preventing complications.
Abstract:
Primary tuberculosis osteomyelitis of metacarpal bone is rare. The majority of cases occur in children and young adults and there is difficulty in diagnosis mainly in young children. We report a new case in children aged of 3 years, presenting a swelling on the dorsal side of her right hand since 8 months. X-ray showed an expansile, cystic and lytic lesion involving the little finger metacarpal. Tuberculosis was confirmed on histological examination. No lesions in lung parenchyma or lymphadenopathy were associated. Patient was successfully managed by anti-tubercular drugs.
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