Osteosarcoma of the hand: a rare case for radiographic appearance, location, and age.

OBJECTIVE

This case describes the history, process of correct diagnosis, and treatment of a patient with pain in her left fourth finger, later found to be an osteosarcoma.

CLINICAL FEATURES: A 28-year-old woman presented with pain in her left fourth finger, which she also noticed had been "getting bigger." Moderate tenderness and decreased range of motion were noticed over the metacarpophalangeal joint of the involved finger.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: Initial radiographs indicated a benign tumor with a pathological fracture, and the patient was referred to a hand surgeon. After debridement of the area, the pathology report returned with a diagnosis of osteoblastic osteogenic osteosarcoma. The patient then underwent amputation of the fourth ray and chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

This case presents a rare bone tumor of the hand and highlights the importance of clinical decision-making to lead to appropriate patient care.