Pachydermodactyly

Key words: Pachydermodactyly, Proximal interphalangeal joints, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Joint swelling

Pachydermodactyly is a rare form of benign digital fibromatosis characterised by asymptomatic, progressive swelling of periarticular soft tissues, usually of proximal interphalangeal joints, without signs or symptoms of arthritis. The diagnosis is usually clinical. The cause is not entirely understood, yet chronic mechanical stimulation seems to be the main culprit. The paper reports the case of a 16-year-old boy with pachydermodactyly due to repetitive hand rubbing. Avoidance of repetitive stimulation usually leads to resolution or stabilization of swellings.