Yes, it is not uncommon for babies to be born with six fingers (or toes), a condition known as polydactyly.
Polydactyly is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. It's characterized by having extra digits on the hands or feet. While the occurrence might seem unusual, it's actually one of the more common congenital limb differences.
Here's a breakdown of what you should know:
-
Prevalence: While exact numbers vary depending on the population studied, polydactyly isn't rare.
-
Types: Polydactyly can manifest in different ways:
- Preaxial polydactyly: An extra thumb or big toe.
- Postaxial polydactyly: An extra little finger or little toe. This is the most common type.
- Central polydactyly: An extra digit between the thumb and little finger or big toe and little toe. This is less common.
-
Cause: The cause of polydactyly can be genetic, and it can run in families. However, it can also occur spontaneously with no known family history. It can sometimes be associated with certain genetic syndromes, but often it occurs in isolation.
-
Treatment: Treatment isn't always necessary, but if the extra digit interferes with function or appearance, surgical removal is an option. The specific approach depends on the location and development of the extra digit. Sometimes it's a simple skin tag, and other times it involves bone and joint structures.
-
When to see a doctor: If your child is born with extra digits, it's important to consult with a pediatrician or specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or geneticist, to determine the best course of action and rule out any underlying syndromes.
In summary, being born with six fingers is a recognized condition called polydactyly that is not exceedingly rare and can often be addressed if needed.
