Variations in Interphalangeal Creases

Krishna: You should have posted pictures of your fingers. I would like to see and then guess what condition it really is.

Can you fold your fingers normally?

I am posting some of the pics from Google Gallery so that you can identify your finger condition with those of others.

Some people have these lines nearer to one another, but for some  far apart.

Interphalangeal creases, the lines that mark the joints between your finger bones, form during fetal development as the skin becomes more strongly attached to the underlying fascia, particularly between 8 and 13 weeks of gestation.

Interphalangeal creases form where the skin is more strongly attached to the underlying fascia, creating a natural point of flexion or folding. These creases, along with other palmar and digital creases, provide a firmer attachment for the skin and underlying structures, and allow for easier movement and grasping.

While fetal hand movement is essential for normal crease pattern development, genetic factors also play a significant role. I think this is the case with you as you say your child also has similar creases as you.

However, there can be variations in the number and location of flexion creases, some of which can be associated with certain genetic conditions or malformations.

Some individuals can have extra bones or abnormally long bones in their fingers, particularly in one finger, a condition called macrodactyly. It's a congenital (present at birth) limb difference, often affecting multiple digits on the same hand or foot.

The conditions of fingers have been divided into these types:

Macrodactyly: This condition causes fingers or toes to grow larger than usual, potentially leading to longer, wider, stiff, or curved digits.

Arachnodactyly: This term, meaning "spider fingers," describes unusually long and slender fingers, sometimes resembling spider legs.

Causes: Macrodactyly: It's a congenital (present at birth) limb difference, often affecting multiple digits on the same hand or foot.

Arachnodactyly: While sometimes a sign of genetic disorders, long, slender fingers can also be a normal variation.

Related Conditions: Polydactyly: This condition involves having extra digits (fingers or toes), which can sometimes include extra bones.

Clinodactyly: This condition is characterized by a curvature of the fingers, and can be a symptom of certain genetic conditions that affect bone growth.

Brachydactyly: This condition involves shortened fingers or toes, and can be caused by genetic factors, medications during pregnancy, or other conditions.

Having four horizontal lines, or creases, on your fingers is a relatively rare occurrence, but it's likely a harmless variation in your skin and anatomy, rather than a medical concern.

Human anatomy exhibits natural variations, and having an extra crease, or even extra phalanges, is simply a normal part of that variation. Some people naturally have more lines on their fingers due to hereditary factors.

From a scientific perspective, having four lines instead of three on your fingers doesn't indicate any health issues or problems. It could be normal flexor creases.

Sometimes as people age, their skin loses elasticity, which can lead to the development of additional lines.

Frequent exposure to certain chemicals or repetitive hand movements can lead to skin changes, including the formation of extra lines.

If you're concerned about the appearance of these extra lines or if they are associated with other symptoms, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for a thorough evaluation.