Pharmacology update: pamidronate for hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy in palliative care

Hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy (HPOA) is a rare syndrome that causes clubbed fingers, periostitis, and synovial effusions. It can adversely impact a patient’s quality of life. It occurs secondary to pulmonary disease – most commonly pulmonary malignancy. The most effective treatment for HPOA is to treat the underlying disease, usually through surgical resection, chemotherapy, or radiation. However, symptomatic treatments rather than definitive treatments (surgical, chemotherapy, or radiation) are more appropriate for the palliative care patient. Pamidronate is a promising medication for the treatment of HPOA for its safety and rapid onset of action. Further research is indicated to determine whether pamidronate is consistently effective.