Arachnodactyly

Definition

Definition of Arachnodactyly
Arachnodactyly ("spider fingers") or achromachia, is a condition in which the fingers are abnormally long and slender in comparison to the palm of the hand. It can be present at birth or develop in later life.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Arachnodactyly
This feature can occur on its own, with no underlying health problems. However, it can also be associated with certain medical conditions. Examples include Marfan syndrome, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and homocystinuria.

Causes

Causes of Arachnodactyly

1. Homocystinuria
2. Marfan syndrome
3. Other rare genetic disorders

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Arachnodactyly
Consult with your doctor.

Treatment

Treatment of Arachnodactyly
The two most serious complications are loss of vision because of dislocation of the eyes' lenses and detached retinas, and weakening of the aorta, rendering it prone to rupture, a usually fatal occurrence. Both problems underscore the importance of avoiding certain physical activities: contact sports, anything that involves jolting movements and sports like sprinting and bicycle racing that raise the heart rate very high.

To reduce the risk of such complications, patients are commonly treated with a drug like propranolol (Inderal) to reduce stress on the aorta by decreasing the force of heart-muscle contractions. They should also undergo annual cardiovascular examinations called echocardiograms to monitor the condition of the aorta and detect other heart problems.

Many Marfan patients also have weakened heart valves and must take antibiotics before undergoing dental work or any other procedure that could spew infectious organisms into the bloodstream and cause a cardiac infection.

Frequent eye examinations are also advisable, and patients must seek eye treatment without delay when they notice any visual abnormality. For patients with dislocated lenses and retinal detachment, surgery may restore vision.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Arachnodactyly
Consult with your doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of Arachnodactyly
Consult with your doctor.