Ainhum (Dactylolysis Spontanea)

Ainhum (dactylolysis spontanea) is spontaneous constricting band around toe (usually 5th toe) leading to autoamputation, in tropical Africans, from leprosy/trauma/diabetes/biomechanical factors. Treatment: early: surgical Z-plasty/division of fibrous band; treat secondary infection; late: amputation of atrophic toe; investigate leprosy/diabetes/peripheral neuropathy; footwear protection; follow-up dermatology/orthopedics/infectious disease; monitor progression.

Common Symptoms

Constricting band around toe; progressive autoamputation; 5th toe; tropical

Causes and Pathogenesis

Fibrous band formation from chronic trauma/leprosy/diabetes causes dactylolysis.

Treatment

Early: Z-plasty/band division; late: amputation; treat infection; investigate cause

Preventive Measures

Footwear; treat leprosy/diabetes; early treatment.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology/Orthopedics/Infectious-disease department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.