pterygium cubitale

Last reviewed 01/2018

Pterygium cubitale describes features of abnormal contracture around the elbow that may occur in isolation or be part of the multiple pterygium syndrome.

Clinically, there is elbow flexion with limited flexion beyond 90 degrees. There may be a range of pathological features including:

• shortage of volar skin
• atrophic arm and forearm muscles
• radial head dislocation
• radioulnar synostosis
• hypoplasia of radius
• hypoplasia of ulna
• distal humeral anomalies

Treatment is problematic. Both soft tissue and bone releases are required, but there is a high tendency to recurrence.