Brachydactyly (from Greek βραχύς (brachus) 'short' and δάκτυλος (daktulos) 'finger') is a medical term denoting the presence of abnormally short digits (fingers or toes) at birth.

[2] Nomograms for normal values of finger length as a ratio to other body measurements have been published.

However exceptions could exist due to antiepileptic medicines taken during pregnancy[3] or low blood flow to the extremities during infancy.

Even left untreated and affecting function the general diagnosis of brachydactyly does not impact life expectancy.

brachydactyly-mesomelia-intellectual disability-heart defects syndrome or if brachydactyly is not isolated and is a part of a larger genetic condition.

In rare cases of isolated untreated brachydactyly, simple functions like walking or grabbing objects may be difficult, reducing the overall quality of life.

Healthcare providers complete a medical history, physical exam of symptoms and use radiographs (X-rays).