05/08/2026
The hatchet sign is a radiologic finding characterized by hatchet-shaped bone erosion on the superolateral humeral head, seen on X-rays. It typically indicates severe joint destruction.
Clinical cause ...
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): The primary cause, resulting from chronic enthesitis eroding the "bare area" of the humerus.
Inflammatory Conditions: Severe chronic synovitis from rheumatoid arthritis or, less commonly, fungal arthritis.