An unusual cause of focal hand dystonia due to a retained implant of the distal radius

BMJ Case Rep. 2016 Jan 8:2016:bcr2015213296. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2015-213296.

Abstract

Focal hand dystonia (FHD) is characterised clinically by a task-specific symptom and typical electromyography findings of a characteristic pattern of cocontraction of the agonist and antagonist muscles of the hand and forearm. The aetiopathogenesis of this condition is still not clear. We present a case of a patient with an unusual aetiology for this condition, in the form of retained hardware in the distal radius. This patient had complete resolution of symptoms after removal of a retained radial plate. Thorough history-taking, clinical examination and necessary investigations are the cornerstones for making a diagnosis of FHD.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bone Plates / adverse effects*
  • Dystonic Disorders / etiology*
  • Dystonic Disorders / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology
  • Radius / surgery
  • Wrist Joint

Supplementary concepts

  • Dystonia, Focal, Task-Specific