Camptodactyly: Difference between revisions
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== Camptodactyly == | |||
[[File:Congenital-kamptodaktyly.jpg|Camptodactyly in a young patient|thumb|right]] | |||
'''Camptodactyly''' is a medical condition characterized by a permanent flexion of one or more fingers. This condition most commonly affects the [[little finger]], but it can also involve other fingers. The term "camptodactyly" is derived from the Greek words "kamptos," meaning bent, and "daktylos," meaning finger. | |||
== | == Presentation == | ||
Camptodactyly is typically identified in [[infancy]] or [[adolescence]]. The condition can be unilateral or bilateral, affecting one or both hands. The degree of flexion can vary significantly, ranging from mild to severe. In mild cases, the finger may only be slightly bent, while in severe cases, the finger may be bent at a sharp angle, limiting [[hand function]]. | |||
== | == Causes == | ||
== | The exact cause of camptodactyly is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to abnormalities in the [[tendons]], [[ligaments]], or [[muscles]] of the fingers. It may also be associated with [[genetic]] factors, as it can occur in families. [[File:Expressivity_pedigree.png|Pedigree showing expressivity of camptodactyly|thumb|left]] | ||
== Diagnosis == | |||
Diagnosis of camptodactyly is primarily clinical, based on the physical examination of the hand. [[X-rays]] may be used to assess the underlying bone structure and rule out other conditions. It is important to differentiate camptodactyly from other conditions that can cause finger contractures, such as [[Dupuytren's contracture]] or [[arthrogryposis]]. | |||
== Treatment == | |||
[[File:Splint_used_to_treat_camptodactyly.jpg|Splint used to treat camptodactyly|thumb|right]] | |||
Treatment for camptodactyly depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary. For more severe cases, treatment options include: | |||
* '''[[Physical therapy]]''': Exercises and stretching can help improve flexibility and function. | |||
* '''Splinting''': A splint can be used to gradually straighten the finger. This is often the first line of treatment for children. | |||
* '''Surgery''': In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to release the contracted tissues and improve finger position. | |||
== Prognosis == | |||
The prognosis for camptodactyly varies. In some cases, the condition may improve with age and treatment, while in others, it may persist or worsen. Early intervention can help improve outcomes and prevent functional limitations. | |||
== Related pages == | |||
* [[Dupuytren's contracture]] | |||
* [[Arthrogryposis]] | * [[Arthrogryposis]] | ||
* [[Congenital | * [[Congenital hand anomalies]] | ||
[[Category:Congenital disorders of musculoskeletal system]] | |||
Revision as of 11:11, 23 March 2025
Camptodactyly

Camptodactyly is a medical condition characterized by a permanent flexion of one or more fingers. This condition most commonly affects the little finger, but it can also involve other fingers. The term "camptodactyly" is derived from the Greek words "kamptos," meaning bent, and "daktylos," meaning finger.
Presentation
Camptodactyly is typically identified in infancy or adolescence. The condition can be unilateral or bilateral, affecting one or both hands. The degree of flexion can vary significantly, ranging from mild to severe. In mild cases, the finger may only be slightly bent, while in severe cases, the finger may be bent at a sharp angle, limiting hand function.
Causes
The exact cause of camptodactyly is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to abnormalities in the tendons, ligaments, or muscles of the fingers. It may also be associated with genetic factors, as it can occur in families.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis of camptodactyly is primarily clinical, based on the physical examination of the hand. X-rays may be used to assess the underlying bone structure and rule out other conditions. It is important to differentiate camptodactyly from other conditions that can cause finger contractures, such as Dupuytren's contracture or arthrogryposis.
Treatment

Treatment for camptodactyly depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary. For more severe cases, treatment options include:
- Physical therapy: Exercises and stretching can help improve flexibility and function.
- Splinting: A splint can be used to gradually straighten the finger. This is often the first line of treatment for children.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to release the contracted tissues and improve finger position.
Prognosis
The prognosis for camptodactyly varies. In some cases, the condition may improve with age and treatment, while in others, it may persist or worsen. Early intervention can help improve outcomes and prevent functional limitations.