A Rare Combination of Heptadactyl and Hexadactyl Polydactyly in a Neonate

Jagdish Mujalda1, Anshu Mujalda2, Deepak Reddy3

  • 1Paediatrics, Military Hospital Ambala, Ambala, IND.

Cureus
|May 23, 2023
PubMed

Insights

This study reports the first known case of an infant born with both heptadactyly (seven digits) and hexadactyly (six digits). These rare polydactyly disorders typically affect limb development.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Genetics
  • Developmental Biology
  • Congenital Disorders

Background:

  • Polydactyly encompasses rare congenital disorders affecting limb development.
  • Common classifications include preaxial, postaxial, and central polydactyly.
  • Heptadactyly and hexadactyly are specific, less common forms.

Observation:

  • The simultaneous occurrence of heptadactyly and hexadactyly in a single infant is unprecedented.
  • This case presents a unique combination of limb abnormalities.

Findings:

  • A single infant was diagnosed with both heptadactyly and hexadactyly.
  • This finding expands the known spectrum of polydactyly presentations.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the variability in congenital limb malformations.
  • Further research may elucidate the genetic and developmental mechanisms underlying combined polydactyly types.
  • Clinical awareness of such rare combinations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

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