A Case of Ulnar Hemimelia -- Rare Anomaly

Ulnar Hemimelia

Abstract

When one side of the distal half of limb [leg or forearm] is absent, such cases are termed as hemimelia. Ulnar hemimelia is a very rare congenital anomalies, occurs in about 1 in 150,000. It is characterized by partial or complete absence of ulna, radial bowing, fixed or mobile elbow with abnormal digits. Most of the cases are unilateral [67%], mainly involves right side [69%] and more common in males [2:1]. In our case, a working boy presented with deformed right upper limb with tridactyly and elbow was fixed in extension. Xray examination revealed partial absence of ulna. The most critical period for the development of limb anomalies is from 24-36 days of embryonic life. Hence early diagnosis in antenatal period can reduce the occurrences. Management of such cases is highly individualized and mainly involves the improvement of function. In this case boy was independent in his daily routine activities hence no treatment required.