Tetradactyly

Tetradactyly is a congenital limb anomaly characterized by the presence of four digits on a hand or foot. It is a form of polydactyly, which is a condition where an individual has more than the usual number of fingers or toes. In tetradactyly, one of the digits is duplicated, resulting in a total of four fully formed digits on the affected limb. This condition can occur in isolation or as part of a broader genetic syndrome. The specific appearance of tetradactyly can vary, ranging from a subtle duplication to a more pronounced extra digit. It can affect one or multiple limbs and can be inherited or occur sporadically. Treatment, if necessary, depends on the severity and functional impact of the condition and may involve surgical removal of the extra digit or other reconstructive procedures. Diagnosis is typically made at birth through physical examination, and genetic counseling may be recommended to assess the risk of recurrence in future offspring.