Arachnodactyly

Arachnodactyly is a condition in which the fingers are long, slender, and curved. They look like the legs of a spider (arachnid).

Considerations

Long, slender fingers can be normal and not associated with any medical problems. In some cases, however, "spider fingers" can be a sign of an underlying disorder.

Causes

Causes may include:

• Homocystinuria

  Homocystinuria

  Homocystinuria is a genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of the amino acid methionine. Amino acids are the building blocks of all proteins i...

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• Marfan syndrome

  Marfan syndrome

  Marfan syndrome is a disorder of connective tissue. This is the tissue that strengthens the body's structures. Disorders of connective tissue affect...

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• Other rare genetic disorders

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Some children are born with arachnodactyly. It may become more evident over time. Talk to your health care provider if your child has long, slender fingers and you are concerned that an underlying condition may exist.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

The provider will perform a physical exam. You will be asked questions about the medical history. This includes:

• When did you first notice the fingers being shaped like this?
• Is there any family history of early death? Is there any family history of known hereditary disorders?
• What other symptoms are present? Have you noticed any other unusual things?

Diagnostic tests are most often not necessary unless a hereditary disorder is suspected.

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