Living with Postaxial tetramelic oligodactyly
A very rare limb difference present from birth in which the little finger and toe bones are missing in all four limbs.
Understanding Postaxial tetramelic oligodactyly
It occurs alone, without other health problems. The bones of the fifth finger and toe are missing, sometimes with a small bit of the end bone left. There have been no further descriptions in the literature since 1993.
Signs & symptoms
GARD lists these among the most common:
- Missing little finger and toe bones in all four limbs
- Hand and finger differences
- Fewer than five digits (oligodactyly)
- Split hand (cleft hand)
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include bone and joint specialists and genetic specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Bone and joint specialists (orthopedists or orthopedic surgeons); Genetic specialists (geneticists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with rare disease patient organizations for support
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says changes in genes cause this condition but doesn't name a gene. It is autosomal dominant, meaning one changed copy of the gene is enough.
Patient organizations
Rare-disease groups that can help
- Global GenesRare Diseases · United States
- National Organization for Rare DisordersRare Diseases · United States
- Genetic AllianceRare Diseases · United States
- RARE FoundationRare Diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Postaxial tetramelic oligodactyly.
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