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Chronic interdigital pilonidal sinus caused by dog hair.
Helen Smith1, Rudi Schmigylski2, Colin Malone3
1Dermatology, NHS Dumfries and Galloway, Dumfries, UK helen.smith12@nhs.scot.
BMJ Case Reports
|January 19, 2025
Summary
A rare case of pilonidal sinus on the foot was diagnosed in an elderly man. The condition was linked to his Hungarian Vizsla dogs, emphasizing the importance of considering pet ownership in clinical history.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Podiatry
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Pilonidal sinus is typically found in the sacrococcygeal region.
- Interdigital pilonidal sinus is an exceptionally rare condition.
- Previous cases suggest an occupational or environmental etiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of interdigital pilonidal sinus.
- To identify a novel association between pilonidal sinus and pet ownership.
- To underscore the significance of comprehensive patient history, including pets.
Main Methods:
- Clinical presentation of a nodular papule on the left forefoot over 20 years.
- Physical examination revealing ginger-red hairs within the sinus tract.
- Histopathological confirmation of pilonidal sinus.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis of pilonidal sinus in the interdigital space of the foot.
- Correlation of sinus tract hairs with the patient's Hungarian Vizsla dogs.
- Referral for surgical management.
Conclusions:
- This case highlights a potential new cause of interdigital pilonidal sinus: contact with pet hair.
- Thorough clinical history, including pet ownership, is crucial for diagnosing rare conditions.
- Further investigation may be warranted to understand the pathogenesis of pet-associated pilonidal sinus.

