Arachnodactyly

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Dolichostenomelia; Spider fingers; Achromacria

Some children are born with arachnodactyly, although it may develop over time. Consult with your health care provider during a routine examination if your child has long, slender fingers and you are concerned that an underlying condition may exist.

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the patient's medical history, including:

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

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

Review Date: 01/29/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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