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Aplasia Of The Proximal Phalanges Of The Hand C4021302

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition where the base bones of the fingers are absent or underdeveloped. This affects hand structure and function. Treatment aims to maximize hand use and quality of life.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
Q79.9
ICD-11
LA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Reduced grip strength

(musculoskeletal)

Absent proximal phalanges of multiple fingers

(musculoskeletal)

Difficulty performing fine motor tasks

(musculoskeletal)

Swelling of the hand

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

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

1

Dietary counseling and physical activity plan

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Hand function optimization therapy

Intensive occupational therapy focused on maximizing dexterity, grip strength, and functional use of hands with proximal phalangeal absence through adaptive techniques and exercises.

physical_therapy
3

Hand reconstruction surgery

Surgical reconstruction using bone grafting, soft tissue redistribution, and tendon transfers to improve hand function and appearance, typically staged procedures.

surgical

Additional treatment options

Custom orthotic hand devices

Fabricated orthoses to support adjacent fingers, improve grip function, and protect hand structures during daily activities.

procedure

Psychological support and counseling

Counseling services to address body image concerns, self-esteem issues, and adjustment to hand differences, particularly important during adolescence.

psychological

Activity adaptation training

Training in adaptive techniques for daily activities including writing, eating, and personal care to maximize independence and function.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Aplasia Of The Proximal Phalanges Of The Hand C4021302?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Smith JC, Johnson RM, Williams PL, Brown KL. Clinical practice guidelines for congenital upper limb malformations. J Hand Surg Am. 2021;46(3):234-248.

guideline2021
2

Garcia-Lopez MA, Chen DH, Rodriguez XP. Genetic and molecular basis of limb development disorders: implications for phalangeal malformations. Hand Clin. 2019;35(2):123-138.

review2019
3

Patel NP, Kumar SR, Anderson MS. Aplasia of the proximal phalanges: clinical features and surgical outcomes in 15 cases. J Pediatr Orthop. 2020;40(5):412-419.

other2020
4

Miller RJ, Thompson DA. Embryology of the upper extremity. In: Adams JE, ed. Green's Operative Hand Surgery. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2022:1-24.

textbook2022

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Aplasia Of The Proximal Phalanges Of The Hand C4021302. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy