Blistering Digital Dactylitis Complicated by Osteomyelitis and Amputation in an HIV-Positive Infant

Abstract

HIV infection is rapidly emerging as a predominant cause of morbidity and mortality in children from developing countries. This probably accounts for the many reports that have emanated from resource-limited settings in the last decade. Reports highlighting bone infections and untoward complications in HIV-infected children are rare. This informed our decision to report the case of a 9-month-old HIV-positive Nigerian girl who presented with blistering dactylitis of the right middle finger. Plain radiograph of the right hand showed amputation of the terminal phalanx and changes consistent with osteomyelitis in the middle phalanx of the third finger. The case is discussed with a view of highlighting this rare complication and the challenges associated with management in a resource-limited setting.