Acute calcific bursitis of the hand - an often overlooked and misdiagnosed condition

Objective: To compare surgical and conservative management in patients with acute calcific bursitis of the hand, a rare condition often misdiagnosed because of its unspecific symptoms. Method: Four patients with calcific bursitis at the metacarpophalangeal or distal interphalangeal joints or the pisiform are presented. Of these, 3 underwent surgery, while one was treated conservatively. Clinical and radiological symptoms and signs are described. Results: The 3 patients treated surgically returned to work on the 10th postoperative day, while the patient who refused surgery needed rehabilitation for 4 weeks. Conclusion: Surgery to remove the calcium deposits enables patients to resume work earlier than after conservative treatment which may take weeks.