Dedo

Dedo is the Portuguese word for a digit of the hand or foot. In common usage, it refers to the fingers of the hand, though the thumb is usually called polegar. When referring to the toes, the term dedo do pé is used.

Anatomy and nomenclature: Each hand has five digits: the polegar (thumb) and four dedos (index, middle, ring, little). A finger typically has three phalanges—proximal, middle, and distal—while the thumb has two (proximal and distal). The joints include the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints that connect the hand to the fingers, and the interphalangeal joints (proximal IP and distal IP) between the phalanges. Sensory innervation is provided mainly by the median and ulnar nerves, with the radial nerve contributing to the dorsal aspects. The fingertips contain dense mechanoreceptors that enable high tactile acuity.

Function: Digits enable gripping, pinching, and precise manipulation; the thumb’s opposability allows a strong grip and fine prehension. Nails protect the distal ends of the digits and aid in certain tasks, such as scratching or gripping.

Development and variation: Humans typically possess five digits per limb. Congenital conditions include polidactilia (extra digits) and sindactilia (fusion of digits). Digit length and shape vary among individuals and between hands.

Clinical and cultural notes: Dedo injuries include fractures of the distal phalanx and jams or sprains; conditions such as tendinopathy or nerve compression can affect function. Culturally, the gesture of showing the middle finger (dedo do meio) is a common insult in many countries. The term dedo covers both fingers on the hand and, with pé, toes on the foot.