Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Is Acroosteolysis?

C.B. Fox
C.B. Fox

Acroosteolysis, which is sometimes known as acro-osteolysis, is a rare condition that results in the loss of bone and tissue in the fingers and toes. In most cases, this condition is inherited, though it can also result from overexposure to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or a severe case of frostbite. Patients with this condition often lose tissue because once the acroosteolysis begins to destroy the bones, the ends of the fingers and toes must be surgically removed so that nearby tissue is not damaged. Some diseases can also result in the loss of bone tissue at the ends of the digits.

In humans, the bone at the tip of each finger or toe ends with a structure known as a tuft. These tufts are a wider, flatter part of the bone and they are found on the ends of bones known as the distal phalanges. In acroosteolysis, these tufts disintegrate, leading to permanent damage of the fingers and toes. This damage occurs slowly and may be difficult to diagnose in time to treat. Left untreated, the loss of bone causes the the surrounding tissue to die.

Acroosteolysis, which is sometimes known as acro-osteolysis, is a rare condition that results in the loss of bone and tissue in the fingers and toes.
Acroosteolysis, which is sometimes known as acro-osteolysis, is a rare condition that results in the loss of bone and tissue in the fingers and toes.

While it may be difficult for patients to determine whether damage to the ends of the bones is occurring beneath the skin on the fingers and toes, there are a few external symptoms of acroosteolysis. Ulcers may form on the tips of the fingers and toes in patients with this condition. In many cases, these ulcers may not heal or may heal and reappear frequently. The tissue at the ends of the digits may also recede in acroosteolysis, causing the fingers and toes to shorten irregularly.

Patients suffering from acroosteolysis may have to have the ends of their fingers and toes surgically removed.
Patients suffering from acroosteolysis may have to have the ends of their fingers and toes surgically removed.

In order to test for acroosteolysis, doctors will need to examine the density of the bones in the hands and feet. Blood tests can be used to determine whether calcium is being leached from the bones. X-rays and magnetic resonance images (MRIs) can also be taken so that doctors can see if there has been any damage to the bones.

There is no treatment for acroosteolysis. When the condition is discovered, amputation may need to be performed in order to prevent the spread of tissue necrosis and painful ulceration on the affected digits. In some cases, acroosteolysis that is caused by another medical condition can be treated through the management of this disorder.

Acroosteolysis can result from a severe case of frostbite.
Acroosteolysis can result from a severe case of frostbite.

Doctors are not sure exactly why acroosteolysis occurs, though they have identified a number of conditions that can lead to it. Exposure to extreme hot or cold can physically damage the bones at the end of the digits, and longterm exposure to certain plastics can also cause irreversible damage. Hyperparathyroidism, leprosy, and hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy can also lead to this condition.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Acroosteolysis, which is sometimes known as acro-osteolysis, is a rare condition that results in the loss of bone and tissue in the fingers and toes.
      By: Anastasia Tsarskaya
      Acroosteolysis, which is sometimes known as acro-osteolysis, is a rare condition that results in the loss of bone and tissue in the fingers and toes.
    • Patients suffering from acroosteolysis may have to have the ends of their fingers and toes surgically removed.
      By: memorisz
      Patients suffering from acroosteolysis may have to have the ends of their fingers and toes surgically removed.
    • Acroosteolysis can result from a severe case of frostbite.
      By: VILevi
      Acroosteolysis can result from a severe case of frostbite.
    • Medical imaging scans may be use to check the condition of bones and ensure no damage has been done.
      By: Trish23
      Medical imaging scans may be use to check the condition of bones and ensure no damage has been done.
    • Amputation may be necessary when acroosteolysis is discovered to prevent the spread of the disease.
      By: HBK
      Amputation may be necessary when acroosteolysis is discovered to prevent the spread of the disease.
    • Exposure to extreme cold may result in acroosteolysis.
      By: smuki
      Exposure to extreme cold may result in acroosteolysis.