Brachydactyly: the genetic malformation suffered by Megan Fox
This type of genetic malformation occurs in 1 in every 2,500 births. What is it about? We tell you everything in this note.
Every 2,500 births, one usually comes into the world with brachydactyly. It is a genetic malformation that causes one or more fingers or toes to be disproportionately short. This happens to the renowned actress Megan Fox.
It is a genetic inheritance and, in most cases, it does not present problems for the person who has it, as explained by specialists.
Syndactyly is a congenital condition (it is present at birth). It is usually discovered for the first time after birth. There are different types of brachydactyly, based on which bones are shortened. This condition can also be a symptom of other genetic disorders.
Unless there is an accompanying disorder that produces symptoms, there is no necessary treatment for brachydactyly.
What are the symptoms?
As explained by the TN site, the signs are generally present at birth, but it is possible that shortened digits may be more evident with growth and development. The main symptoms or signs of brachydactyly is having fingers, toes, or fingers that are shorter than normal. Unless you have another condition associated with brachydactyly, you shouldn't feel any pain.
The shortened fingers and toes of brachydactyly can cause a person trouble finding shoes. You may also experience some difficulty with your grip.
Classification
Depending on the complexity, it is possible to distinguish between simple and complex syndactyly:
- Simple syndactyly. In most cases, the membrane is just the skin and soft tissues.
- Complex union membership. In some cases, the bones of two fingers may be fused. It occurs as part of a syndrome (such as Down syndrome, Apert syndrome, Carpenter syndrome, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, Pfeiffer syndrome, and Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome) and usually involves more digits than the simple syndactyly.
A classification can also be made according to the extent of the membrane can be complete or incomplete.
- Complete syndactyly. The fingers are attached to the tip.
- Incomplete syndactyly. The skin only partially joins the fingers.
Syndactyly of the thumb / index or ring / little finger is typically treated at 6 months of age to prevent the longer finger from curving toward the smaller finger with growth. When it affects other fingers, it is usually done when they have grown, between 18 and 24 months of age.
In simple cases, the membrane between the digits is cut and a skin graft is made from the groin or anterior elbow. After surgery, a cast is used both to immobilize the hand and to protect the skin graft. Additional surgeries may be necessary. Occupational therapy will help the child to improve the use of his hand.
