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Differential diagnosis of acute dactylitis psoriatica
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|June 1, 1986
Summary
Psoriatic arthritis can present as sausage-shaped fingers (dactylitis psoriatica) without rheumatoid factor. Early suspicion and treatment are key for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease.
- Dactylitis psoriatica, or "sausage finger," is a specific manifestation.
- It occurs without rheumatoid factor activity.
Observation:
- Dactylitis psoriatica presents as arthralgias along phalanges with global soft tissue swelling.
- The condition can have an intermittent course.
- Skin and nail changes may be mild or masked.
Findings:
- X-rays may show spicular protuberances at diaphyses, resembling a "cloudy collar."
- Diagnosis requires high clinical suspicion.
Implications:
- Symptomatic treatment includes NSAIDs or gold salt therapy.
- Surgical interventions like arthroplasties and arthrodeses are for joint destruction.
- Amputation is not a primary treatment for dactylitis psoriatica.