Symmetrical Fingertip Gangrene in a Factory Worker Exposed to Paint Thinner

Abstract

Symmetrical peripheral gangrene involving the fingertips is a frequent manifestation of atherosclerotic or embolic thrombi. It may indicate an underlying systemic vasculitis or suggest an environmental exposure to freezing temperatures. We present a case of a factory worker who inadvertently got exposed to paint thinner at workplace, leading to gangrenous changes in his exposed fingertips. The clinical examination and investigations could not reveal any inflammatory or hypercoagulable state, and arterial vasospasm was found to be the most possible reason attributable to this event. The patient was managed with antiplatelet drugs and arterial vasodilators. In a case of bilateral symmetrical finger gangrene, physicians must systematically search for a professional or occupational as a putative factor.