CASE

Thumb – Osteomyelitis

CASE HISTORY

Swelling and pus. Status post removal of infected fingernail.

TECHNICAL FACTORS

Long- and short-axis fat- and water-weighted images were performed; 1.5T High Field Oval. 

KEY IMAGES

This case has no key images.

CASE FINDINGS

  • Images performed with a dedicated microcoil. 
  • Fluid collection is seen distally at the thumb roughly 11mm in diameter. Marked cortical destruction of the distal phalanx with osseous edema extending to the IP joint of the thumb. Swelling of both radial and lateral collateral ligament fibers. Although subtle foci of distal epiphyseal proton-density signal hyperintensity proximal phalanx of the thumb noted with preserved T1 signal intensity subcutaneous edema extends towards the distal diaphysis of the thumb in the proximal phalanx.

CASE CONCLUSION

  • Distal subcutaneous fluid collection. Osteomyelitis distal phalanx of the thumb without IP joint space effusion. Foci of proton-density signal hyperintensity within the head proximal phalanx without associated T1 signal change favor regional edema without osteomyelitis. 
  • Imaging performed in the dedicated microcoil. 
  • Patient refused IV contrast administration but none needed. 
  • No tenosynovitis extending towards the MCP articulation.

Case-based learning.
Perfected.

Learn from world renowned radiologists anytime, anywhere and practice on real, high-yield cases with Medality membership.

  • 100+ Mastery Series video courses
  • 4,000+ High-yield cases with fully scrollable DICOMs
  • 500+ Expert case reviews
  • Unlimited CME & CPD hours

Related Cases

Knee – Bucket handle meniscal tear

Read More

Knee – ACL tear

Read More

Knee – PCL tear

Read More

Case-based learning.
Perfected.

Try MRI Online Premium for free.

Customers served! 0 +  Mastery Series video courses
Customers served! 0 +  High-yield cases
Customers served! 0 +  Expert case reviews

Unlimited

CME & SA-CME credits

Learn from world renowned radiologists anytime,
practice on real, high-yield cases with MRI Online Premium.