Ainhum
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Ainhum is an endemic dermatosis of certain tropical countries characterized by the gradual constriction of toes, especially the little toes, by a fibrous ring leading to spontaneous amputation. The article outlines the differential diagnosis from congenital amputations, constriction bands, scleroderma, and leprosy, noting the absence of anesthesia and strict localization.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
AINHUM (meaning "saw" in the language of the African Nagos negroes), an endemic dermatosis of certain tropical countries, characterized by the gradual constriction of the toes, especially the little toes of the feet, by a fibrous ring and their subsequent spontaneous amputation. Differential diagnosis is made from congenital amputations, Simonart's bands (Simo-nart), sclerodermia ainhumoides, and leprosy. Characteristics of ainhum are: the absence of anesthesia, strict localization, and spontaneous recovery within 2–10 years.
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“Ainhum.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/ainhum/