TB dactylitis (spina ventosa) is a specific form of bone tuberculosis affecting primarily:

• A Terminal phalanges of adults with pulmonary TB
• B Metacarpal bones of adults, causing cortical erosion
• C Short tubular bones of the hand and feet in children ✓
• D Carpal bones with subchondral cyst formation

Explanation

Spina ventosa (TB dactylitis) affects the short tubular bones (metacarpals, metatarsals, phalanges) predominantly in children under 5 years. The characteristic radiological appearance is expansion of the periosteum with cortical thinning ('blown-out' appearance) — the term 'spina ventosa' means 'wind-filled spine or thorn,' referring to the expanded balloon-like bone. Multiple bones may be involved simultaneously. The blood supply of short tubular bones (limited haversian channels, rapid periosteal stripping) explains the unique appearance compared to long bone TB.

Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.