Fourth metacarpal bone
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The fourth metacarpal bone (metacarpal bone of the ring finger) is shorter and smaller than the third.
Fourth metacarpal bone | |
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![]() Fourth metacarpal of the left hand (shown in red). Palmar view. | |
![]() The fourth metacarpal. (Left.) | |
Details | |
Identifiers | |
Latin | os metacarpale IV |
FMA | 23902 |
Anatomical terms of bone |
The base is small and quadrilateral; its superior surface presents two facets, a large one medially for articulation with the hamate, and a small one laterally for the capitate.
On the radial side are two oval facets, for articulation with the third metacarpal; and on the ulnar side a single concave facet, for the fifth metacarpal.
Clinical relevance
A shortened fourth metacarpal bone can be a symptom of Kallmann syndrome, a genetic condition which results in the failure to commence or the non-completion of puberty. A short fourth metacarpal bone can also be found in Turner syndrome, a disorder involving sex chromosomes.
A fracture of the fourth and/or fifth metacarpal bones transverse neck secondary due to axial loading is known as a boxer's fracture.[1]
Ossification
The ossification process begins in the shaft during prenatal life, and in the head between 11th and 37th months.[2]
Additional images
- Fourth metacarpal bone of the left hand (shown in red). Animation.
- Fourth metacarpal bone of the left hand. Close up.
- Palmar view of the left hand (fourth metacarpal shown in yellow).
- Dorsal view of the left hand (fourth metacarpal shown in yellow).
- A fractured right hand fourth metacarpal (boxer's fracture).
See also
References
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