A Preventable Complication of a Slow Growing Cancer: Lessons Learned and a Literature Review -

Abstract

Malignant tumors of the hand are rare. Chondrosarcoma presenting in the hand are usually low grade with low risk of metastasis. To our knowledge and following literature review, there are nine reported cases of metastatic chondrosarcoma of the hand worldwide in the English literature, with only two reported cases of axillary lymphadenopathy. We describe a case of an unusual presentation of chondrosarcoma of the left little finger with distant axillary and pulmonary metastases. We also review management issues unique to this patient and reflective learning points to improve care. Our patient could have had a satisfactory outcome if treated early. We recommend referral of suspicious hand lesions to a specialist hand surgeon, for early assessment and management, in order to reduce patient morbidity and mortality.