[RARE LOCALIZATION OF OSTEOID OSTEOMA--DISTAL PHALANX OF THE RING FINGER]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Osteoid osteoma is a benign bone tumor that rarely affects the distal phalanx of the fingers.
• Atypical presentations, including swelling, redness, and nail deformity, can mimic other conditions.
• Typical night pain may be absent, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old patient presented with chronic fingertip pain, swelling, redness, and nail deformity.
• X-rays revealed osteolysis in the distal phalanx, with CT confirming osteoid osteoma.
• Surgical removal via excochleation was performed.

Findings:

• Histopathology confirmed osteoid osteoma.
• Post-surgery, all symptoms resolved, and the patient regained full function.
• The DASH score improved from 54.4 to 0, indicating complete recovery.

Implications:

• Osteoid osteoma should be considered in cases of distal phalanx swelling and deformity, even without typical night pain.
• Computed tomography (CT) is crucial for diagnosis in rare locations.
• Surgical excision or excochleation is the preferred treatment due to the delicate anatomy of the finger.