Phalangeal Microgeodic Syndrome Resulting in Rapid Digital Shortening

Abstract

Microgeodic phalangeal syndrome is a rare condition affecting the fingers in children. Radiographically, the affected phalanges show sclerosis with multiple small areas of osteolysis. The pathogenesis of microgeodic phalangeal syndrome is considered to be a transient disturbance of the peripheral circulation caused by cold temperatures. In most cases, the symptoms and the radiographic changes return to normal within several months without any treatment. We present a rare case of microgeodic phalangeal syndrome in the middle phalanx of the right index finger in an 8-year-old girl, in whom the affected phalanx shortened within 6 weeks of the initial presentation. It was speculated that minor trauma to the finger might have contributed to the collapse and shortening of the phalanx. The current case indicates that the use of a splint for the affected finger in the early period after onset of symptoms might be recommended to avoid digital shortening.

Deux observations rares de syndrome microgéodique des phalanges survenant chez l’adulte et comportant un œdème osseux transitoire hivernal

“…Les cas de syndrome microgéodique des phalanges précédemment rapportés étaient tous originaires du Japon [1,2,[4][5][6][7]. Le syndrome microgéodique des phalanges est considéré comme étant un trouble transitoire de la microcirculation périphérique, secondaire aux températures froides car il survient fréquemment en hiver.…”

“…Les patients qui en sont atteints présentent des symptômes ressemblant à des engelures, comportant un gonflement, un érythème et des douleurs atteignant plusieurs doigts [2][3][4][5]. Les cas rapportés chez l'adulte sont très rares.…”

Two rare cases of adult-onset phalangeal microgeodic syndrome with magnetic resonance imaging-proven bone edema transiently occurring in winter

“…Most cases of PMS occur in children, and only one adult case has been previously reported [4]. The radiographic features of PMS typically show mild osteosclerosis with cortical irregularity and multiple small radiolucent spots of osteolysis in the diaphysis [1,[3][4][5]7]. In the recent reports, MRI was found to be helpful for the diagnosis of PMS [1,2].…”

“…The PMS cases previously reported were almost all in Japan [1,2,[4][5][6][7]. The pathogenesis of PMS is considered to be a transient disturbance of the peripheral circulation caused by cold temperatures, because it frequently occurs in winter.…”

“…Patients with PMS show frostbite-like symptoms, such as swelling, redness, and pain in several fingers [2][3][4][5]. Case reports on PMS in adults are rare.…”