Arachnodactyly

• Alternative Names

  Dolichostenomelia; Spider fingers; Achromacria

• Considerations

  Long, slender fingers can be normal and not associated with any medical problems. In some cases, however, the tendency to develop spider fingers can indicate an underlying disease.

• Common Causes
  • Homocystinuria
  • Marfan's syndrome
  • Other rare genetic disorders

  Note: Having long, slender fingers may be normal.

• Call your health care provider if

  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.

• What to expect at your health care provider's office

  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: 2/27/2008

Reviewed By: Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.