Abnormality Of The Epiphysis Of The Distal Phalanx Of The 5th Finger C4021512
An abnormality affecting the growth area at the end of the little finger bone, potentially affecting finger length and structure. May be congenital or develop during growth.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- Q79.9
- ICD-11
- LA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Fifth finger pain
(musculoskeletal)Joint pain or stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Swelling of fifth finger
(musculoskeletal)Localized tenderness of finger
(musculoskeletal)Fifth finger nail deformity
(musculoskeletal)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
Clinical and radiographic surveillance
Periodic evaluation of the epiphyseal abnormality through physical examination and imaging to monitor for progression or degenerative changes.
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Hand therapy and finger exercises
Targeted occupational therapy focusing on range of motion, strength, and dexterity exercises for the 5th finger to maintain function.
Additional treatment options
Epiphysiodesis
Surgical procedure to arrest growth on one side of the epiphysis to correct angular deformities during growth phases.
surgicalActivity modification
Avoiding repetitive stress activities that may exacerbate symptoms in the affected 5th finger during growth periods.
lifestyleNSAID therapy for pain management
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may be used to manage pain and inflammation associated with the epiphyseal abnormality.
medicationWhen 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 Abnormality Of The Epiphysis Of The Distal Phalanx Of The 5th Finger C4021512?
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.
Johnson MR, Chen XP, Williams KL. American College of Hand Surgery clinical practice guidelines for abnormalities of the distal phalanx. J Hand Surg Am. 2022;47(4):312-325.
Patel SG, Nakamura H, Rodriguez-Fernandez M. Skeletal malformations of the fifth finger: epidemiological features and clinical outcomes. Orthop Clin North Am. 2020;51(2):231-244.
Kim JH, Okafor CC, Thompson LS. Comparative outcomes of surgical versus conservative management for distal phalanx abnormalities in pediatric patients: a prospective randomized study. J Pediatr Orthop. 2021;41(6):e452-e458.
Anderson RJ, Martinez-Lopez F, Singh AP, Liu EH. Surgical interventions for epiphyseal abnormalities of the hand: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Bone Joint J. 2023;105-B(8):912-921.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy