Pseudo-Ainhum of the Left Hallux Complicated by Osteitis: A Rare Clinical Presentation

Introduction: Pseudo-ainhum is a disorder of unknown etiology, generally congenital and non-progressive.According to one theory, it is caused by in utero constriction of amniotic bands.These constriction bands result in a less aesthetically pleasing foot and lead to long-term neurovascular compromise, potentially resulting in finger amputation.It can occur at any age, regardless of race, and is associated with conditions involving advanced peripheral neuropathy and/or vascular disorders affecting the extremities.Pseudo-ainhum (PA) is characterized by circumferential ulceration of one or more toes and/or fingers, often painless, which can ultimately lead to amputation.Observation: A 60-year-old Beninese housewife, with no notable medical history, consulted the Dermatology-Venereology department of the Buruli Ulcer Screening and Treatment Center (CDTUB) in Allada for a loss of tissue at the base of the left hallux, which had been progressing continuously for one year with periods of remission.The condition reportedly began over five years ago with a spontaneous deformation of the hallux, initially painless.The patient had consulted a traditional healer, who treated her with topical herbal medicine under occlusion.one or more toes and/or fingers, often painless, which can ultimately lead to amputation.On physical examination, a circular constriction was observed at the proximal third of the left hallux, with an overlying oval-shaped ulceration measuring approximately 1 x 0.5 mm in diameter.The ulcer surface revealed a small opening through which foul-smelling purulent fluid was draining.The diagnosis of pseudo-ainhum of the left hallux complicated by osteitis was confirmed, and a disarticulation was performed (.There was a favorable postoperative outcome after 17 days. Conclusion:Pseudo-ainhum is a benign condition; it is often considered a clinical sign when it occurs in a syndromic context, particularly in the pediatric population.Awareness of this condition is essential, especially in recognizing its benign nature.