Pseudoainhum, a forgotten but important complication of Hansen’s disease

Pseudoainhum is a condition characterized by the development of a fibrotic constriction ring involving the base of the phalanges of the finger or toes resulting in eversion and absorption of distal structures, and possibly leading to spontaneous amputation. While ainhum is of unknown cause, pseudoainhum is classified based on the etiology: primary, secondary, and traumatic etiologies from hereditary and nonhereditary diseases, including Hansen’s disease. However, there are few reported cases of pseudoainhum associated with leprosy in the literature. We present a case of a patient with pseudoainhum secondary to leprosy. He underwent multidrug treatment (MDT) and was referred to an orthopedic and physiotherapy clinic. Our report reaffirms the association between leprosy and pseudoainhum: prompt diagnosis and adequate medical treatment may avoid progression, digit amputation, and psychological sequelae.