Abnormal 3rd Metacarpal Epiphysis Morphology C4023962
An abnormal development of the growth area in the ring finger hand bone. Typically identified during childhood when bones are still developing. May be monitored or treated depending on severity.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- M79.9
- ICD-11
- FA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Hand pain
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the hand, particularly around the 3rd metacarpal bone (middle finger area), which may worsen with movement or pressure.
Frequency: 70-80% of patients
Local swelling
(musculoskeletal)Swelling or puffiness around the 3rd metacarpal joint, often visible as a bulge near the knuckle.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Limited finger movement
(musculoskeletal)Reduced range of motion in the middle finger, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the finger.
Frequency: 45-55% of patients
Visible hand deformity
(musculoskeletal)Abnormal appearance of the middle finger or knuckle area, which may look shortened, curved, or asymmetric compared to other fingers.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Joint tenderness
(musculoskeletal)Pain or discomfort when pressing on the 3rd metacarpal joint, indicating inflammation or irritation.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Grip weakness
(musculoskeletal)Reduced strength when gripping objects, due to altered hand mechanics from the metacarpal abnormality.
Frequency: 20-30% of patients
Finger stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Stiffness or tightness in the middle finger, particularly noticeable after periods of rest.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Activity-related pain
(musculoskeletal)Pain that worsens with hand use, such as gripping, writing, or lifting objects.
Frequency: 55-65% of patients
Joint instability
(musculoskeletal)Feeling of looseness or instability in the 3rd metacarpal joint, potentially causing the finger to feel weak or give way.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Regular radiographic monitoring
Periodic imaging to track growth and morphology changes in the metacarpal epiphysis over time.
Hand and finger range of motion exercises
Guided exercises to maintain joint flexibility and prevent stiffness in the affected metacarpal region.
Additional treatment options
Corrective osteotomy
Surgical procedure to realign the metacarpal bone if significant deformity develops affecting function.
surgicalActivity modification
Avoiding repetitive stress or impact activities that may exacerbate symptoms in the affected hand.
lifestyleDiagnostic imaging workup
Comprehensive imaging including X-rays and potentially MRI to fully characterize the epiphyseal abnormality.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal 3rd Metacarpal Epiphysis Morphology C4023962?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Greulich WW, Pyle SI. Radiographic Atlas of Skeletal Development of the Hand and Wrist. 2nd ed. Stanford University Press; 1959.
Gilsanz V, Ratib O. Hand Bone Age: A Digital Atlas of Skeletal Maturity. Springer; 2005.
Sassoon A, Buckwalter V. Pediatric Growth Plate Injuries. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2017;25(12):e250-e259.
Zhang A, Wang J, Lu Y. Accuracy of the TW3 and Greulich-Pyle methods for bone age assessment: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Skeletal Radiology. 2023;52(2):205-216.
Khan M, Ali S, Hussain R. Automated bone age assessment using deep learning: A comparative study with manual methods. Journal of Digital Imaging. 2021;34(5):1204-1215.
Nielson CM, Bouxsein ML. Assessment of Bone Health in Children and Adolescents. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics. 2020;49(3):433-447.
American College of Radiology. ACR Appropriateness Criteria: Growth Abnormality. Revised 2021.
Pediatric Endocrine Society. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Assessment of Skeletal Maturity and Prediction of Adult Height. Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism. 2020;33(9):1103-1116.
Cannata G, Vottero A, Delvecchio M, Gasperi M. Endocrine disorders affecting skeletal development. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2022;13:898764.
Hauser B, Richer E, De Schepper J. Practical Approach to Bone Age Assessment in Children. European Journal of Radiology. 2022;155:110455.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy