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My Child Has:
Camptodactyly
Video from our experts:
What is camptodactyly?
The term "camptodactyly" is used to describe a flexion deformity of the finger. Typically, patients with camptodactyly present with a bent finger that cannot completely extend, or straighten.
What causes camptodactyly?
Camptodactyly can be caused by a number of different abnormal structures in the finger, including tight skin, contracted tendons and ligaments, abnormal muscles, and irregularly shaped bones.
How common is camptodactyly?
The exact incidence of this condition is unknown. However, it is estimated to affect approximately 1% of the general population to varying degrees. In general, patients will present either as infants or adolescents. The proximal interphalageal joint of the small finger is most commonly affected, and camptodactyly occurs more frequent in girls than boys. While most cases are sporadic, some patients will have a family history of relatives with similar finger contractures. Camptodactyly also can also occur as part of an underlying syndrome with associated facial, dental, other systemic anomalies.
How is camptodactyly diagnosed?
Camptodactyly is diagnosed by treating physicians after a thorough medical history and careful physical examination. X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
How is camptodactyly treated?
Mild finger flexion deformities rarely cause pain or functional problems. For these reasons, surgery is not typically recommended for patients with mild (less than 30 degrees) flexion contractures. Splinting and occupational/hand therapy are the treatment of choice for patients with mild to moderate deformity.
For patients with severe flexion deformities - particularly very young patients or adolescents with rapidly progressing flexion contractures - surgery is often recommended. As there is no single cause for camptodactyly, no single operative procedure is recommended for all patients. While improvement can be achieved, patients will often have some residual flexion deformity, and there is a risk for recurrent contractures.
