Unusual presentation of isolated metacarpal tuberculosis

Abstract

Metacarpal tuberculosis is a rare presentation of the disease; it represents only 1% of all bone sites. The following report documents the case of a 28-year-old female who sought a consultation for a painful right hand following an injury. Radiographs showed a fracture of the distal fifth metacarpal through a lytic lesion. Histology of a biopsy specimen revealed granulomas with caseous necrosis, specific to tuberculosis. The patient experienced a complete recovery with anti-tubercular treatment. This case of an unusual presentation of isolated metacarpal tuberculosis was reported with the intention of highlighting the rarity of this location. It is therefore imperative to bear in mind the possibility of such atypical presentations of tuberculosis when making a rapid and correct diagnosis and prescribing adequate treatment.