A small and painful puzzle.

Abstract

This case of osteoid osteoma is reported for two reasons. First, for its rarity and unusual location (it was diagnosed very late) and second because it demonstrates that the history of a painful condition leads to the correct diagnosis, and although clinical investigations may provide corroboratory evidence, they are certainly no substitute. A 23-year-old student experienced spontaneous nightly pain in the distal phalanx of his right hallux. The pain increased over 2 years but with a good response to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. After 9 months X-rays showed a cystic lucency. The patient was seen by a number of consultants, but the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma was delayed. After surgery the diagnosis was confirmed histologically and the pain has not recurred.