Differential Diagnosis for Split Hand
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Split-hand/split-foot malformation (SHFM): This is a congenital disorder characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of central digits of the hand or foot, giving the appearance of a "split" hand or foot. It is the most direct match for the condition described.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ectrodactyly: A congenital anomaly where all or part of one or more fingers or toes are missing, often presenting with a split-hand appearance. It can occur in isolation or as part of a syndrome.
- Cleft hand: A rare congenital deformity of the hand where there is a V-shaped cleft between the fingers, which can resemble a split hand.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Amniotic band syndrome: Although rare, this condition can cause limb abnormalities, including those that might resemble a split hand, due to the entanglement of fetal parts by amniotic bands. It's crucial to identify this condition due to its potential for other severe complications.
- Neurological conditions leading to hand deformity: Certain neurological conditions can lead to muscle imbalances or paralysis that might result in a hand posture resembling a split hand. Identifying an underlying neurological cause is critical for appropriate management.
- Rare diagnoses
- Adams-Oliver syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by congenital limb abnormalities, including split-hand/split-foot malformation, and other systemic features like scalp defects.
- Poland syndrome: A rare condition characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the chest muscle (pectoralis major) on one side of the body and webbing of the fingers of the hand on the same side, which might be confused with split-hand malformation in some cases.
- Lacrimo-auriculo-dento-digital (LADD) syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that can include limb abnormalities among its features, although it is more commonly associated with eye, ear, tooth, and digital anomalies.