POLYDACTYLISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Polydactylism is a medical condition characterized by the presence of supernumerary fingers or toes on an individual's hands or feet. Derived from the Greek words "poly," meaning many, and "dactylos," meaning finger or toe, polydactylism refers to an aberrant development where an individual possesses more than the typical number of digits on their extremities.
Polydactylism can manifest in various forms, ranging from subtle variations in finger or toe size to the presence of fully-formed additional digits. These extra digits can be either fully functional or non-functional, resembling normal fingers or toes in appearance or exhibiting deformities. In some cases, the additional digits may possess joints and muscles, allowing for independent movement and functionality.
Polydactylism is a congenital abnormality that can occur across different species, including humans as well as animals such as cats. It commonly arises due to genetic factors and can be inherited or sporadic. Several genetic conditions, including chromosomal abnormalities or mutations in certain genes, have been associated with polydactylism.
Polydactylism may not necessarily cause any functional impairments or health issues. However, in some cases, the presence of extra digits may lead to difficulty in utilizing the affected hand or foot effectively. Treatment for polydactylism may involve surgical removal of the additional digits for aesthetic or functional reasons, particularly when the excess digits are causing hindrances in day-to-day activities.
Overall, polydactylism is an anatomical variation characterized by the presence of supernumerary fingers or toes, which can be caused by genetic factors and may require medical intervention depending on the impact on an individual's health and well-being.
-
The presence of more than five digits on either hand or foot.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for POLYDACTYLISM
- oolydactylism
- lolydactylism
- -olydactylism
- 0olydactylism
- pilydactylism
- pklydactylism
- pllydactylism
- pplydactylism
- p0lydactylism
- p9lydactylism
- pokydactylism
- popydactylism
- pooydactylism
- poltdactylism
- polgdactylism
- polhdactylism
- poludactylism
- pol7dactylism
- pol6dactylism
- polysactylism
Etymology of POLYDACTYLISM
The word "Polydactylism" is derived from the Greek roots "poly" meaning "many" and "daktulos" meaning "finger". In the context of the term, "polydactylism" refers to a congenital condition in which an individual has more than the usual number of fingers or toes.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
