The so-called hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rarely diagnosed lesion of the distal part of the ulnar artery caused by acute or repetitive blunt trauma to the hypothenar region. Typically it occurs when workmen repeatedly use the palm of the work-hand as a hammer, but athletes may be affected by it as well. In the present article, the clinical picture of a case of bilateral HHS is described, the case of a lathe operator who had used his hands as hammers for decades. It took more than 10 years from the first angiography to a correct diagnosis. Therefore we wish to describe the symptoms of this disease here. In cases with similar ailments such as asymmetric Raynaud’s syndrome or ischaemic symptoms of the fingers, an exact anamnesis of work and leisure habits is essential, not only to prevent an oversight of this specific clinical syndrome but also to initiate further diagnosis, preventive measures and, if necessary, curative therapy. Because of the conceivable social-statutory and occupational consequences, the correct diagnosis of a work-related hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is of great importance.
