Progressive Hallux Pain Due to Subungual Exostosis: Diagnosis and Surgical Management

Abstract

Background and aim Subungual exostosis is a relatively uncommon benign ostecartilaginous lesion of the distal phalanx of the great toe, responsible for pain and nail deformity. Material A case of subungual exostosis in a female patient is reported. Diagnosis was made performing clinical examination and plain foot radiographs. The treatment proposed was a complete surgical excision. Results At the 9-month follow-up, there was no evidence of recurrence, and the patient was fully satisfied with the cosmetic and functional results. Conclusions Subungual exostosis is a relatively rare condition which can cause pain and discomfort to the patient but, once correctly diagnosed, it can be successfully solved with a complete surgical excision.