Arachnodactyly

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Arachnodactyly

Definition

Arachnodactyly is a physical condition in which the fingers are long, slender, and curved, resembling a spider's legs.

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.

Causes

Homocystinuria
Marfan's syndrome
Other rare genetic disorders.

Note: Having long, slender fingers may be normal.

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.

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