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Alternative names Return to top
Single palmar creaseDefinition Return to top
A simian crease is a single crease extending across the palm of the hand. People normally have three creases in their palms.Considerations Return to top
Prominent creases (called flexion creases) appear on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The palm normally has three flexion creases. Sometimes, the two horizontal creases fuse to form a single crease. This is called a single palmar crease, or simian crease.
Many structures develop in the fetus in the first few months of gestation. Palmar creases develop early, by the 12th week of life. Some abnormalities in palmar creases indicate problems with development and are associated with disorders like Down syndrome. However, a simian crease appears in approximately 1 out of 30 people. Males are twice as likely as females to have this condition.
Common Causes Return to top
A simian crease is often a normal finding, occurring in about 3% of the population. It may also be associated with:What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
An infant with a simian crease may have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition. Diagnosis of that condition is based on a family history, medical history, and thorough physical evaluation.
Your doctor may ask questions such as:
Based on the answers to these questions, the medical history, and the results of the physical exam, further testing may be necessary.
Update Date: 5/3/2004 Updated by: Katrina McPherson, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |