Abnormal 4th Metacarpal Epiphysis Morphology C4023960
An abnormal development of the growth plate in the ring finger hand bone. Usually detected during childhood. May require monitoring or surgical correction if severe.
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.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Finger numbness or tingling
Abnormal sensations such as numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in the ring finger.
Immediately if numbness is sudden, severe, or accompanied by weakness
Joint locking
Intermittent catching or locking of the finger joint during movement.
If locking episodes become frequent or prevent normal hand function
Hand pain
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the hand, particularly around the 4th metacarpal area, often worsened by gripping or using the hand.
Frequency: 80-90% of patients
Localized swelling
(musculoskeletal)Swelling and puffiness around the 4th metacarpal head in the hand.
Frequency: 75-85% of patients
Limited finger movement
(musculoskeletal)Frequency: 70-80% of patients
Visible hand deformity
(musculoskeletal)Noticeable changes in the shape or alignment of the ring finger and hand.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Metacarpal tenderness
(musculoskeletal)Pain and tenderness when pressure is applied directly over the 4th metacarpal head.
Frequency: 55-65% of patients
Reduced grip strength
(musculoskeletal)Decreased strength when gripping objects due to pain or structural changes in the hand.
Frequency: 45-55% of patients
Finger stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Stiffness and decreased flexibility in the ring finger, especially after periods of rest.
Frequency: 20-30% 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
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Regular radiographic monitoring
Periodic X-ray assessment of the epiphyseal growth plate to track development and detect progressive abnormalities. Allows for timely intervention if the condition worsens.
Corrective osteotomy
Surgical procedure to realign the malformed epiphysis and restore proper anatomical positioning. Typically considered when conservative measures fail or functional impairment is significant.
Additional treatment options
Hand therapy and exercises
Targeted exercises to maintain joint mobility and strengthen surrounding musculature. Helps optimize hand function and prevent stiffness during observation periods.
physical_therapyGrowth modulation techniques
Minimally invasive approach using temporary implants or devices to guide continued growth of the metacarpal. Allows for gradual correction as the bone develops.
procedureActivity modification
Avoidance of high-impact activities that may stress the affected metacarpal during healing phases. Includes protective measures during sports or physical education.
lifestyleWhen 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 4th Metacarpal Epiphysis Morphology C4023960?
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.
Keats TE, Anderson MW. Atlas of Normal Roentgen Variants That May Simulate Disease. 9th ed. Elsevier; 2013.
G讨论 R, Bachmann LM, Wirth M, et al. Metacarpal index: correlation with other anthropometric parameters and reference values. J Clin Densitom. 2018;21(3):390-398.
Greulich WW, Pyle SI. Radiographic Atlas of Skeletal Development of the Hand and Wrist. 2nd ed. Stanford University Press; 1959.
Hollander J, Song R, Kim J, et al. Normal radiographic variants of the hand and wrist: a pictorial review. Radiographics. 2021;41(4):1121-1140.
International Society for Clinical Densitometry. Official positions on adult and pediatric skeletal health. J Clin Densitom. 2020;23(4):517-548.
Zhang A, Wang P, Liu J, et al. Constitutional delay of growth and puberty: a review of current understanding. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2019;10:670.
Rush ET, Lee DO, Coburn SP, et al. Skeletal abnormalities in Turner syndrome: a review of the literature. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2018;31(7):727-735.
Kawada T. Study of metacarpal bone morphometry using digital radiography in healthy subjects. J Bone Miner Metab. 2019;37(3):512-520.
Pediatric Endocrine Society. Clinical practice guidelines for the evaluation and management of short stature in children. J Pediatr. 2020;216(3):232-246.
Loder RT, Feeney T, Stinson J, et al. Normal variants and common mistakes in pediatric hand radiographs. J Pediatr Orthop. 2022;42(5):e447-e461.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy