|
Perplexing lack of pain
Machine accident points to a problem
by Mariam Abdurrahman and Jay Keystone,
MD
|
Mr. T.J. is a 42-year-old machine press operator. A few
days earlier, the tips of his right fingers were caught in machinery
and surprisingly, caused little pain. He initially attributed the
decreased sensitivity to the cold working place, but subsequently
recalled a few other instances of hypoesthesia in warm environments
as well. He s quite concerned that he might have diabetes, given
a positive family history and his loss of sensory perception. He
doesn t recall any problems with sensation in either foot. He also
denies increased micturition, unusual appetite or visual changes.
Mr. T.J. has a history of mild asthma but is otherwise well. He
s not taking any medications.
Mr. T.J. was born in South India and raised in Yemen. He s lived
in Canada for 3 years since immigrating here, and returned for a
visit to Yemen 2 years ago. He also recently spent a 3-week vacation
in the Brazilian Amazon.
On exam, he has superficial lacerations to the 4th and 5th fingertips
of his right hand. You note that there are several asymptomatic,
hypopigmented plaques 1 on the right arm and 3 on the left leg.
He mentions that he had similar lesions a few years ago, just before
he emigrated from Yemen. At that time, he was given a dermatology
referral but didn t follow up as they healed by themselves. He s
unsure of when they recurred and indicates that they re only notable
for their scaliness and absence of hair. Closer examination reveals
that the plaques are well-circumscribed with elevated margins. Gross
motor function is normal but the pinprick test of the affected fingers
is not.
Mr. T.J. s blood work shows a random blood glucose level of 6.8
mmol/L. The complete blood count is normal, as are levels of vitamin
B12 and folate. Hand
x-rays are unremarkable. What s your diagnosis?
|