HYPERPHALANGISM Meaning and
Definition
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Hyperphalangism is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by an excessive growth or development of the phalanges, which are the long bones present in the fingers and toes. This abnormality can affect either the hand or foot, or even both.
Typically, the phalanges consist of three distinct bones known as the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. In hyperphalangism, these bones may experience an abnormal increase in length, resulting in elongated or enlarged fingers or toes. Such elongation can occur uniformly across all phalanges or may be limited to a particular bone.
Hyperphalangism can be congenital, meaning it is present at birth, or it may be acquired due to other underlying conditions or genetic abnormalities. This condition is often diagnosed during infancy or early childhood as the affected digits become more prominent and evident as the child grows.
While hyperphalangism can be purely a cosmetic issue, it may sometimes cause functional difficulties, such as challenges in gripping objects or difficulties in wearing footwear. Depending on the severity of the condition and the associated symptoms, treatment options may include physical therapy to improve functionality or surgical intervention to correct the deformity.
In conclusion, hyperphalangism is a medical condition characterized by an excessive growth or development of the finger or toe phalanges, which can lead to elongated or enlarged digits. Ensuring proper diagnosis and management can help mitigate any functional limitations and enhance overall quality of life for individuals with this condition.
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Polyphalangism; the presence of a supernumerary phalanx in a finger or toe.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERPHALANGISM
- hyperphalangicm
- hyperphalangiqm
- hyperphalangirm
- hyperphalangise
- hyperphalangisi
- hyperphalangiso
- hyperphalangisl
- hypurrphalangism
- h yperphalangism
- hype rphalangism
- hyperph alangism
- hyperpha langism
- hyperphal angism
- hyperphala ngism
- hyperphalan gism
- hyperphalang ism
- hyperphalangi sm
- hyperphalangis m
Etymology of HYPERPHALANGISM
The word "hyperphalangism" is derived from two components: "hyper-" and "phalangism".
1. "Hyper-" is a prefix of Greek origin, meaning "excessive" or "beyond normal". It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate an abnormality or excess of a particular condition.
2. "Phalangism" is derived from the word "phalanx", which refers to the bones in the fingers or toes. In the context of anatomy, a phalanx is a bone that forms part of a digit.
Therefore, "hyperphalangism" can be understood as a medical term, combining the prefix "hyper-" to mean "excessive" with "phalangism" to indicate an abnormality or excess in the bones of the fingers or toes.
