What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Congenital Ectopic Nail on Fifth Finger
• Ectopic Fingernail of Fifth Finger
• Two Fingernails of Fifth Finger

What is Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger? (Definition/Background Information)

• Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger is an extremely rare congenital disorder, characterized by the presence of an extra fingernail either alongside the normal fifth fingernail, or on the palm side of the fifth fingernail

Who gets Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger is a rare congenital disorder. The presentation of symptoms may occur at birth
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been clearly identified for Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger? (Etiology)

The exact underlying cause of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger is currently unknown. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger?

The signs and symptoms of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger may include:

• Presence of an extra fingernail alongside the fifth fingernail (this fingernail may be smaller than the regular fingernail)
• Presence of an extra fingernail on the opposite side (palm side) of the fifth fingernail
• It is typically the little finger (pinky) that is affected

How is Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger Diagnosed?

Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests (if necessary)
• Imaging studies (if necessary)

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger?

The complications of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger may include:

• Difficulty in the use of the little finger
• Emotional stress, in some cases

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger Treated?

• There is no cure for Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger, since it is a genetic condition
• The treatment for extra fingernail on the palm side is surgical removal of the fingernail and reconstruction with the palm skin flap

How can Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger be Prevented?

• Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger may not be preventable, since it is congenital disorder
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of inherited and acquired genetic disorders
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended

What is the Prognosis of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger? (Outcomes/Resolutions) 

• The prognosis of Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger:

• Double Fingernail of Fifth Finger may also be known by the following additional synonym(s): Two Fingernails of Little Finger

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/