Polydactyly (Polydaclylism) is a medical condition that is characterized by the presence of extra fingers or toes. Polydactyly is a type of hyperdactyly, which is defined as the presence of extra fingers in a person. In the case of polydactyly, a person may have more than five fingers or toes.
Polydactyly is a fairly rare condition that affects approximately 1 in 1000 people. Despite this, polydactyly has been known since ancient times and is mentioned in various cultures. For example, in Chinese culture, polydactyly was considered a sign of superiority, while in Egyptian culture it was considered a sacred trait.
Polydactyly can manifest itself in various forms. Some forms of polydactyly may be hereditary, while other forms may be caused by mutations in the genetic material. Often polydactyly can be detected already at the birth of a newborn, but in some cases it can appear later.
In most cases, polydactyly is not a serious medical condition and does not require treatment. However, in some cases, extra digits can lead to health problems, such as impaired function of an arm or leg. In such cases, surgery may be required.
In conclusion, polydactyly is a rare medical condition that can manifest in various forms. Although in most cases polydactyly is not a serious medical condition, in some cases it can lead to health problems. If you suspect polydactyly, consult your doctor for advice.
Polydactyly is one of the most common developmental defects among twins. It is manifested by the presence of additional fingers, each of which has corresponding skin and phalanges of the fingers. Polydacty is common: according to various sources, the frequency ranges from 0.2 to 3 cases per thousand newborns. Extreme cases of polydacty are characterized by pronounced asymmetry: there may be disturbances in the number of fingers and toes and their location, disruption of the integrity of the fingers, or damage to the extremities.