Lead arthropathy from a wrist gunshot wound: A rare case report

Abstract

Introduction

Lead arthropathy results from gunshot wounds with retained bullet fragments in the intraarticular spaces. Lead arthropathy's mode of manifestation may cause a delay in diagnosis.

Case report

We present an atypical case of a 32-year-old male patient who presented with a wrist mass after a gunshot injury and wrist arthropathy with a retained bullet fragment. Lead arthritis features are reviewed on radiographs and intraoperatively.

Conclusion

The presence of chronic retained bullet fragments following gunshot may go unreported for years, leading to severe lead arthritis. To mitigate the risk of lead arthropathy, orthopaedic hand facilities with experienced surgeons should treat hand gunshot injuries. We advocate for the removal of bullets from non-weight-bearing joints.