Epidermoid cyst of the phalanx of the finger caused by nail biting

Abstract

Intraosseous epidermoid inclusion cysts of the phalanx of the finger are rare, and are regarded as reactive or post-traumatic pseudotumours. We describe a case of an epidermoid cyst in the distal phalanx of the fifth finger caused by chronic nail biting, which was successfully excised.

Key Words::

• Epidermoid cyst
• phalanx
• nail biting

Acknowledgements

We thank Iris Wojtowicz, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium, for her linguistic support.