Recurrent Fibro-Osseous Pseudotumour of the Digit Mimicking Infection: A Narrative Review and Case Report
Abstract
Background: Fibro-osseous pseudotumour of the digit (FOPD) is a rare, benign soft-tissue lesion that mimics infection and malignancy due to its rapid growth, pain, and radiological features. Misdiagnosis can result in inappropriate treatment, including unnecessary ablative surgery.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Embase, supplemented by reference screening. Case reports and case series of FOPD involving the digits of the hands or feet were included. Data were synthesised to identify clinical, histopathological, radiological, and management patterns. In addition, we report a recurrent case of FOPD misdiagnosed as tenosynovitis.
Results: Twenty-two case reports published between 2015 and 2025 and four large case series prior to 2015 yielded a total of 134 patients. Fibro-osseous pseudotumor of the digit typically affects young to middle-aged adults (mean age, 36 years) with a slight female predominance. Lesions presented as rapidly enlarging painful nodules, occasionally associated with prior trauma, and were frequently mistaken for infection or extraskeletal osteosarcoma. Complete surgical excision was the definitive treatment, with recurrence reported rarely and almost exclusively following incomplete excision. Our case demonstrated recurrence after initial debridement, with subsequent definitive excision leading to functional recovery, although residual stiffness and sensory disturbance persisted.
Conclusions: Fibro-osseous pseudotumor…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case report, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health. Reported size: 134 participants or records.
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