What are the causes of Ainhum ?

 What is Ainhum ?

Ainhum is a condition  that refers to the auto- amputations of a digit , usually the 5th toe . This is sometimes  bilateral and can also, though less frequently , affect the fingers . It is a poorly understood  phenomena and medical literature is somewhat lacking . It is also known as dactylopsis  spontanea . 

Ainhum occurs equally in males and females . Risks factors for getting ainhum include :

- Arfican hertiage  , though those of asian , West Indians and Central America heritage are also susceptible

- Tropical or subtropical climate 

- Age less than 30 or greater than 50 years old 

What are the causes of Ainhum ?

Ainhum occurs due to a fibrotic band which  encircles a digit  and consists  it, gradually  causing  the auto - amputation .

the exact cause of this disease is unknown  , though genetic predisposition is suspected as it tends to run in families . 

Other researches theories that it is an immune system response , due to the involvement of T- lymphocytes at the affected site

it is believed that trauma or walking  barefooted might possible  contribute to the development of this disease . 

Some pictures of Ainhum :





What is the treatment for Ainhum ?

Treatment for ainhum may include :

Pain control with oral naproxen or injections of triamcinolone - lidocanine compounds 

topical steroid or intralesional corticosteroids , topical retinoids or salicylates for early stages fibrotic bands 

Amputation for late stage ainhum 


What are the outcome for Ainhum ?

Ainhum in itself  fatal , but may put patient  at risk for :

1. secondary bacterial skin infections at affected site 

2. development of dermatophyte fungus infections

3. Balance problems due to loss of digit  

Ainhum is an idiopathic dermatological disease characterized by a progressive contricting ring usually on the fifth toe , which may lead to spontaneous auto - amputation  of the affected toe .  Timely diagnosis and treatment are the key elements to avert amputations with resultant mutilating deformities , permanent handicaps and psychological sequelae .



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