Complete duplication of the distal phalanges of the hand

What it means

A complete duplication affecting one or more of the distal phalanges of the hand.

As opposed to a partial duplication were there is still a variable degree of fusion between the duplicated bones, a complete duplication leads to two separate bones appearing side to side (radio-ulnar axis) as seen on x-rays. A duplication leading to an accessory bone appearing in the proximo-distal axis on x-rays, is actually a different entity called a pseudoepiphysis (see corresponding terms), sometimes also referred to as hyperphalangism.

Rare diseases that can present with this1

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category