Interdigital webbing

Interdigital webbing is a condition in which the skin between the digits (fingers or toes) extends further than normal, creating a webbed appearance. This condition can be present at birth (congenital) or can develop later in life due to certain medical conditions or injuries.

Etymology

The term "interdigital" comes from the Latin words "inter," meaning "between," and "digitus," meaning "finger." "Webbing" refers to the web-like appearance of the skin between the digits.

Causes

Interdigital webbing can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, environmental influences during fetal development, and certain medical conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Genetic disorders: Certain genetic disorders, such as Apert syndrome, Carpenter syndrome, and Pfeiffer syndrome, can cause interdigital webbing.
• Fetal alcohol syndrome: This condition, which results from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, can cause a variety of birth defects, including interdigital webbing.
• Cutis laxa: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the connective tissue, causing the skin to be loose and sagging. Interdigital webbing can be a symptom of this condition.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of interdigital webbing is the presence of extra skin between the digits. This can range from a slight extension of the skin to a complete fusion of the digits. Other symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition and can include:

• Craniosynostosis: This is a condition in which the sutures in a baby's skull close too early, causing problems with normal brain and skull growth.
• Syndactyly: This is a condition in which two or more digits are fused together.
• Polydactyly: This is a condition in which a person is born with more than the usual number of digits.

Treatment

Treatment for interdigital webbing depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of any underlying medical conditions. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. In other cases, treatment options can include:

• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be performed to separate the webbed digits. This is typically done in early childhood.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve function and mobility in the affected digits.
• Genetic counseling: If the condition is caused by a genetic disorder, genetic counseling may be beneficial.

See also

• Syndactyly
• Polydactyly
• Cutis laxa

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