Fourth metacarpal bone
The fourth metacarpal bone (metacarpal bone of the ring finger) is shorter and smaller than the third.
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).
_-_animation01.gif){kind=link}
_-_animation02.gif){kind=link}
See also
References
Public domain This article incorporates text in the public domain from Template:Wikidatathe 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918) Template:Main other Template:Reflist
