The microanatomic basis of finger clubbing -- a high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging study

Nakamura, J., Halliday, N.A., Fukuba, E., Radjenovic, A. , Tanner, S.F., Emery, P., McGonagle, D. and Tan, A.L. (2014) The microanatomic basis of finger clubbing -- a high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging study. Journal of Rheumatology, 41(3), pp. 523-527. (doi: 10.3899/jrheum.130823)

Abstract

Objective. Hypervascularization in finger clubbing is recognized, but its microanatomical basis remains unclear. This pilot descriptive study used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to explore this further.<p></p> Methods. High-resolution MRI acquired with contrast agent was carried out in 4 patients with finger clubbing and 4 healthy volunteers. The anatomy of the nail bed, capsular structures, and bony changes were described.<p></p> Results. Marked nail bed thickening and contrast enhancement was noted in all clubbed fingers, with bone edema in 3 of the 4 patients. None of the healthy subjects had similar abnormalities.<p></p> Conclusion. This confirms that hypervascularization of the nail bed observed in the microanatomy on high-resolution MRI is associated with clubbed appearances of the nails.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Radjenovic, Dr Aleksandra
• Authors: Nakamura, J., Halliday, N.A., Fukuba, E., Radjenovic, A., Tanner, S.F., Emery, P., McGonagle, D., and Tan, A.L.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Journal Name: Journal of Rheumatology
• Publisher: Journal of Rheumatology Publishing Co. Ltd.
• ISSN: 0315-162X
• ISSN (Online): 1499-2752