This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
1. Introduction
Pachydermodactyly (PDD), derived from the Greek words “pachy” (thick), “dermis” (skin), and “dactylos” (finger), is a rare, benign, and asymptomatic form of cutaneous fibromatosis [1]. It was first classified as knuckle pads by Verbov in 1975 [1]. As a distinct clinical entity, it is characterized by painless, nonpruritic soft tissue swelling of the lateral aspect of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, resulting in fusiform or saccular swellings on both the radial and ulnar aspects [2]. Despite its benign nature, a lack of awareness can lead to unnecessary investigations and treatments [3]. This report presents a case of PDD that was promptly recognized and appropriately managed.
2. Case Presentation
A 14-year-old male with a known case of hyperopic astigmatism and autoimmune pancreatitis maintained on azathioprine 50 mg PO for 8 years. The patient presented to our dermatology clinic complaining of a 2-year history of progressive, symmetrical, painless, nonpruritic swelling of the soft tissue around the PIP joints of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th fingers bilaterally (Figure 1). He reported using PlayStation controller and mobile games repetitively, on average 5 h per day. He denied having morning stiffness, fever, rash, mouth ulcers, uveitis, or gastrointestinal symptoms. He remained active in his activities and without any loss of function reported. In addition, he denied having any personal history of a preceding traumatic event or psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, he denied having a family history of rheumatologic conditions. However, his mother and brother are carriers of an ADAMTS-13 mutation while genetic testing confirmed that our patient does not carry this mutation.
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Physical examination revealed symmetrical soft tissue swelling on the PIP joints of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th fingers bilaterally (Figure 1), with the left hand being affected more than the right hand (Figure 1). The patient was, otherwise, asymptomatic, and specifically denied having any pruritus, tenderness, pain, and warmth or burning sensation in his fingers. Moreover, the range of motion was within normal range and no other joints were affected, and no skin or nail changes were observed.
The results of the laboratory investigations, including a complete blood count, liver and renal function tests, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody were within normal limits or negative. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging of the left hand only noted a subcutaneous oval-shaped soft tissue mass, which showed a T1 hypointensity and a minimally enhancing T2 hyperintensity with no joint effusion or synovitis (Figure 2). Histopathologic analysis was not performed, and the patient was diagnosed with PDD. The patient swelling was mainly attributed to repetitive mechanical trauma from extensive use of gaming controllers, so by recognizing the potential impact of such habitual behaviors we initially recommended behavioral modifications aiming at reducing mechanical stress on affected digits. Moreover, he was offered an intralesional steroid injection; however, the patient preferred to be referred to plastic surgery for possible surgical excision.
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3. Discussion
Since Verbov’s initial report in 1975 [1], cases of PDD have been documented worldwide. However, despite increased reporting, the condition remains rare and likely underdiagnosed, as the low number of reported cases may not reflect its true prevalence. In addition, PDD is often misdiagnosed as an inflammatory arthropathy due to its overlapping clinical features [1].
PDD has been recognized as a distinct clinical entity due to its typical presentation as painless, nonpruritic thickening of the lateral side of the PIP joint, resulting in fusiform or saccular swellings on the radial and ulnar sides [2]. The second through fourth digits are usually affected bilaterally, with occasional involvement of the fifth digit [2]. The soft tissue swelling tends to evolve insidiously and symmetrically, as observed in our patient who presented with a slowly progressive symmetrical swelling of the PIP joints [2–4]. Furthermore, although PDD is characterized by absence of joint involvement, pain, or functional loss, there was one reported case of deformable PDD with nonerosive subluxation of the interphalangeal joint, constituting an atypical presentation [5]. However, our patient denied having pain or loss of function. In addition, our patient, a 14-year-old male in puberty, aligns with Dallos et al.’s observation of a median age of 14 for the onset of PDD [2], highlighting the typical age-related onset of this condition.
Even though the underlying etiology of PDD is unknown, there is evidence that mechanical irritation of the periarticular skin is a major contributor to the development of the condition [2]. Moreover, although PDD is a benign condition with minimal systemic implications, rare associations that are related to genetic predispositions and psychiatric conditions have been reported (Table 1). For instance, Ulusoy et al. reported a familial case of unilateral PDD, highlighting the potential role of hereditary factors in its development [21]. Similarly, Cabanillas et al. and Woodrow et al. linked PDD with psychiatric conditions such as compulsive behavioral habits, Asperger syndrome, and other neuropsychiatric disorders [23, 25]. Hence, this indicates the need for clinicians to assess and address potential underlying psychological conditions when diagnosing PDD and possibly integrating habit reversal training when managing PDD. In addition to behavioral and genetic associations, occupational and environmental factors have also been implicated in PDD. Sagransky et al. reported cases of PDD in poultry processing workers due to repetitive occupational motions, reinforcing the role of mechanical irritation in its pathogenesis [19]. Similarly, Chen et al. identified links between PDD and local trauma, such as knuckle cracking [20]. These findings align with our case, where the patient’s extensive gaming habits likely contributed to the condition by repetitive mechanical irritation. Recognizing these environmental triggers is essential in managing PDD (Table 1).
Table 1
Literature review of included studies and sample characteristics.
| Sr. no. | Author(s) and year | Study title | Case description | Age/gender | Sample size | Diagnostic findings | Differential diagnosis | Management | Outcomes | Reference |
| 1 | Ito et al. (2024) | “Symptomatic pachydermodactyly: a case report” | Symptomatic PDD in a young male requiring differentiation from JIA | 14/male | 1 | Normal inflammatory markers, absence of uveitis, no bone destruction | Rheumatoid factor-negative polyarticular JIA | Observation; surgery for esthetic reasons | Morning stiffness resolved; swelling reduced | [6] |
| 2 | Gallardo-Villamil et al. (2023) | “Pachydermodactyly: Soft tissue enlargement of the fingers in a teenager” | Progressive asymptomatic soft tissue enlargement in a teenager with histological confirmation of PDD | 16/male | 1 | Normal serological tests, soft tissue swelling on X-ray, histopathology showing collagen, and mucin deposition | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis | Intralesional corticosteroids | Mild improvement in swelling and functionality | [7] |
| 3 | Tariq et al. (2023) | “Pachydermodactyly, mimicker of rheumatoid hands, presents in a patient with tuberous sclerosis” | Case of PDD coexisting with tuberous sclerosis presenting as symmetrical joint swellings | 21/male | 1 | Symmetrical MCP and PIP joint swelling; negative serology; X-ray showing soft tissue swelling without erosion | Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, multicentric reticulohistiocytosis | Intralesional steroids, surgical excision | Swelling reduced; improved hand grip and joint flexion | [4] |
| 4 | Aljohani (2022) | “Unilateral pachydermodactyly misdiagnosed as juvenile idiopathic arthritis: A case report” | Unilateral PDD in a young male misdiagnosed with JIA and treated with methotrexate for a year | 16/male | 1 | Normal serological tests, X-ray showing soft tissue swelling, skin biopsy confirming collagen thickening | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Thiemann disease | Stopped methotrexate; observation advised | Symptoms stable; no progression after cessation of treatment | [8] |
| 5 | Sakai et al. (2022) | “Surgical management of pachydermodactyly (PDD) via midaxial incision: A case report” | Asymptomatic PIP joint swelling on both hands; confirmed diagnosis via surgical excision | 15/male | 1 | Soft tissue swelling on MRI; no bone or joint involvement; histopathology confirmed PDD | Rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue diseases | Surgical resection via midaxial incision with Z-plasty | Improved appearance; no recurrence or complications | [9] |
| 6 | Hussain et al. (2021) | “Painful pachydermodactyly in a 39-year-old woman: A case report and review of the literature” | Chronic symmetrical polyarticular pain with progressive swelling of PIP and DIP joints | 39/female | 1 | Soft tissue swelling on X-ray; negative serology including RF, anti-CCP, and ANA | Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis | Vitamin D supplementation, etoricoxib, behavioral modification | Pain and swelling alleviated; stable condition | [10] |
| 7 | Novais et al. (2021) | “Pachydermodactyly: The role of ultrasonography, superb microvascular imaging, and elastography in diagnosis” | Asymptomatic swelling of PIP and MCP joints with a focus on imaging diagnostics | 15/male | 1 | Skin thickening, lower elasticity, no synovitis or bone changes | Excluded inflammatory arthropathies | Observation | Improved diagnostic accuracy, and reduced need for biopsy | [11] |
| 8 | Jubber et al. (2021) | “Pachydermodactyly presenting as juvenile idiopathic arthritis” | Adolescent males misdiagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis | 172ah/male | 1 | Normal inflammatory markers; imaging showed soft tissue swelling only | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis | Diagnosis revised; reassurance provided | Avoided unnecessary medication | [12] |
| 9 | Saidy et al. (2020) | “Pachydermodactyly: A case report and review of literature” | Bilateral symmetrical progressive painless swelling of PIP joints with hyperkeratosis | 17/male | 1 | X-ray and MRI showed no inflammatory or malignancy signs; negative serological tests | Rheumatic diseases, connective tissue disorders | Conservative management; observation | Symptoms stable; no functional impairment | [13] |
| 10 | Dagrosa et al. (2020) | “Pachydermodactyly associated with extensive computer gaming: A report of three cases” | Three adolescent males with PDD were linked to excessive computer gaming | 14–18/males | 3 | Histopathology showing increased fibroblasts and mucin; imaging with soft tissue thickening | Psoriatic arthritis, knuckle pads, inflammatory arthritis | Behavioral modifications, observation | Symptoms stabilized; no further progression was noted | [14] |
| 11 | Liew & ting (2020) | “Pachydermodactyly: A case report of a little-known and benign form of digital fibromatosis” | Bilateral PDD in a male teenager linked to gaming habits | 16/male | 1 | MRI showed subcutaneous thickening; no joint abnormalities | Excluded inflammatory arthropathies | Advised reduced gaming | The swelling subsided over time | [3] |
| 12 | Barnes et al. (2018) | “Pachydermodactyly: Case report including clinical and histopathologic diagnostic pitfalls” | Chronic swelling and thickening of PIP joints with lichenified plaques; mimicked arthritis | 25/male | 1 | Soft tissue swelling; normal labs including RF, anti-CCP, ESR; histology showing dermal thickening and mucin | Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, knuckle pads | Behavioral modification; the patient declined intralesional steroids | Stable; no progression of symptoms | [15] |
| 13 | Mititelu et al. (2022) | “Two cases of pachydermodactyly presenting as polyarthritis” | Periarticular nodular swelling was initially diagnosed as JIA; and confirmed as PDD post-biopsy | 17/male, 14/female | 2 | Soft tissue swelling without joint involvement; histology showing mucin deposition and coarse collagen | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, self-healing juvenile cutaneous mucinosis | Hydroxychloroquine, NSAIDs, patient counseling | No significant improvement; symptoms stable | [16] |
| 14 | Schneider et al. (2016) | “Pachydermodactyly: A case report including histopathology” | Bilateral swelling over PIP joints; nodular appearance with a history of mechanical trauma | 19/male | 1 | Hyperkeratosis and haphazardly arranged thick collagen fibers; MRI showing soft tissue swelling without bony changes | Juvenile inflammatory arthropathy, connective tissue diseases | Behavioral modification, topical corticosteroids | Significant regression of swelling; stable condition | [17] |
| 15 | Equena et al. (2014) | “Case for diagnosis: Pachydermodactyly” | Asymptomatic swelling of PIP joints associated with compulsive finger manipulation | 22/male | 1 | Hyperkeratosis, discrete papillomatosis, mild increase in fibroblasts, and dermal mucinosis | Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, synovitis | Behavioral modification, cessation of finger manipulation | Partial regression of lesions; stable outcome | [18] |
| 16 | Sagransky et al. (2012) | “Pachydermodactyly from repetitive motion in poultry processing workers” | PDD in poultry processing workers due to repetitive motions | 33, 42/males | 2 | Bilateral PIP swelling; no systemic markers | Occupational repetitive motion injury | Behavioral modification | Reduced symptoms with job modification | [19] |
| 17 | Chen et al. (2012) | “Pachydermodactyly: Three new cases in Taiwan” | Three cases of PDD with bilateral PIP joint swelling; two females and one male | 13/male, 13/female, 12/female | 3 | X-rays show soft tissue swelling; no bony changes; normal labs including ANA, RF, and ESR | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, knuckle pads, Thiemann’s disease | Skin care education, avoidance of local trauma | The swelling was reduced with no complications | [20] |
| 18 | Ulusoy et al. (2012) | “Unusual unilateral presentation of pachydermodactyly” | A rare familial case of unilateral PDD | 16/Male | 1 | Unilateral PIP joint swelling; no systemic involvement | Familial knuckle pads | Supportive care | Symptoms are nonprogressive | [21] |
| 19 | Small et al. (2011) | “A 12-year-old boy presenting with unilateral proximal interphalangeal joint swelling” | Unilateral PDD in a 12-year-old boy | 12/male | 1 | Swelling of PIP joint without systemic abnormalities | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, inflammatory arthritis | Observation | No progression was noted | [22] |
| 20 | Cabanillas et al. (2010) | “Pachydermodactyly in a young girl: a cutaneous manifestation of a psychiatric disorder?” | Adolescent girls with repetitive behavioral habits linked to PDD | 15/female | 1 | Soft tissue thickening on PIP joints without systemic findings | Behavioral-linked PDD | Behavioral therapy | Symptoms reduced after habit cessation | [23] |
| 21 | Taylor-Gjevre et al. (2009) | “A case of deforming pachydermodactyly” | Atypical deforming PDD with subluxation of the interphalangeal joint in an adult male | 39/male | 1 | Nonerosive subluxation seen on imaging, normal inflammatory markers | Inflammatory arthropathy (e.g., psoriatic arthritis) | Supportive management | Persistent but nonprogressive symptoms | [5] |
| 22 | Park et al. (2006) | “A case of pachydermodactyly treated by surgical excision” | Surgical excision for a patient with significant PDD-related swelling | 22/male | 1 | Subcutaneous thickening was confirmed histologically | None specified | Surgical excision | Symptoms resolved | [24] |
| 23 | Woodrow et al. (2003) | “Pachydermodactyly in association with Asperger syndrome” | Young adult with Asperger syndrome presenting with bilateral PIP joint swelling | 15/male | 1 | No systemic or inflammatory markers; MRI revealed subcutaneous thickening | Inflammatory arthritis | Addressed underlying psychiatric condition | Swelling is reduced with reduced repetitive behavior | [25] |
| 24 | Yüksel et al. (2023) | Pachydermodactyly | Symptomatic PDD in a young male with anxiety issues and repetitive finger friction behavior | 15/male | 1 | Symmetrical soft tissue swelling over the lateral aspects of 2nd to 4th PIP joint bilaterally Normal inflammatory markers MRI: sof tissue swelling | — | Behavioral modification and psychological support | — | [26] |
The diagnosis of PDD is primarily clinical [1]. Laboratory markers are typically not elevated in blood tests [1]. Histopathologic examination can be valuable in differentiating PDD from other clinical entities; however, in our case, the clinical manifestation was characteristic of PDD. Hence, we relied on clinical and radiological findings. In addition, the literature shows that histopathologic examination is not often required in order to diagnose PDD, and the histopathological findings are often nonspecific [6, 10]. Moreover, X-rays may reveal soft tissue swelling and MRI can reveal swelling of soft tissues without synovitis, tendonitis, or joint effusion.
When it comes to the management of PDD, discontinuing mechanical stimulation in order to prevent progression and promote regression, or addressing underlying mental disorders, is the first option to consider [13]. Surgical excision or intralesional steroid injections can be effective in some cases [7, 9, 24].
4. Conclusion
Progressive symmetrical bilateral swelling of the PIP, in an otherwise healthy young male, should prompt the consideration of PDD in the differential diagnosis as it can be mistaken with other rheumatic conditions that present with digital bulbous swelling. A prompt diagnosis would prevent unnecessary investigations, reassure the patient, and avoid inappropriate treatment.
Consent
All patients consent for the publication of recognizable patient photographs or other identifiable materials were obtained by the authors and included at the time of article submission.
Author Contributions
The manuscript has been read and approved by all authors. All authors believe that the manuscript represents honest work. The authors Mishari T. Alrubaiaan, Yousef H. Alharthi, and Suliman Alfaraj contributed equally to this work.
Funding
All authors declare no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work, and all authors declare no financial relationships at present or at past that might have interest in the submitted work.
Acknowledgments
The authors have nothing to report.
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Abstract
Pachydermodactyly (PDD) is a rare, underdiagnosed benign condition characterized by asymmetrical, bilateral fusiform swellings of the hands’ proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints. In this type of digital fibromatosis, cutaneous thickening is thought to occur due to repetitive mechanical irritation. Furthermore, due to its striking clinical appearance, PDD is commonly overlooked or misdiagnosed as other inflammatory arthropathies or pachydermoperiostosis. In addition, because of its elusive nature and resemblance to more serious conditions, clinicians should be aware of this condition. Herein, we present a case of PDD and discuss the differential diagnoses to improve recognition and prevent misdiagnosis.
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Neither ProQuest nor its licensors make any representations or warranties with respect to the translations. The translations are automatically generated "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE" and are not retained in our systems. PROQUEST AND ITS LICENSORS SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM ANY AND ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTIES FOR AVAILABILITY, ACCURACY, TIMELINESS, COMPLETENESS, NON-INFRINGMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Your use of the translations is subject to all use restrictions contained in your Electronic Products License Agreement and by using the translation functionality you agree to forgo any and all claims against ProQuest or its licensors for your use of the translation functionality and any output derived there from. Hide full disclaimer






