A curious case of a blue finger. Issue 1 (January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Trotter, Kristine; Espinosa, James; Lucerna, Alan
• Is Part Of: JAAPA. Volume 36:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: 25
• Page End: 27
• Publication Date: 2023-01
• Subjects: Achenbach syndrome -- blue finger syndrome -- autoimmune disease -- ecchymosis -- paroxysmal -- hematoma; Medicine -- Periodicals; Physicians' assistants -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Physician Assistants -- Periodicals; Medicine; Physicians' assistants; Periodicals; 610.7372069
• DOI: 10.1097/01.JAA.0000885156.01681.46
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0893-7400

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article describes an unusual presentation of a blue finger in a middle-aged woman with no significant past medical history. The patient was diagnosed with Achenbach syndrome, a rare condition that is generally considered transient and benign. The underlying pathophysiology of this condition is unclear, but may be related to transient subcutaneous ecchymosis, possibly from microtrauma. If the condition recurs, a workup can include laboratory tests for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Clinician awareness of this presentation may reduce patient anxiety and unnecessary testing.