Kirner deformity, also known as dystelephalangy, is a rare medical condition characterized by a distinctive, progressive curvature of the little fingers. It primarily involves the terminal phalanges (the outermost bone segments) of the fifth digits, causing them to bend inward towards the thumb side and downwards towards the palm, a direction described as radiovolar.
Key Characteristics
- Rarity: Kirner deformity is considered a rare condition.
- Appearance: It manifests as a painless and progressive curving. This means the deformity develops gradually over time and typically does not cause discomfort.
- Affected Digits: The condition specifically affects the outermost bones of the little fingers (fifth digits).
- Symmetry: It is typically bilateral, meaning both hands are usually affected.
- Direction of Curvature: The curvature is radiovolar, indicating a bend towards the radius bone (thumb side) and towards the palm.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Kirner deformity is primarily clinicoradiological. This means it relies on a combination of:
- Clinical Examination: A physical assessment by a healthcare professional to observe the characteristic appearance of the affected fingers.
- Radiological Imaging: X-rays are essential to confirm the diagnosis by revealing the specific bone changes and the characteristic curvature of the terminal phalanges.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial to differentiate Kirner deformity from other hand anomalies or injuries.
