Anatomy and Cell Biology

Korean Association of Anatomists (대한해부학회)
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Polymelia (thoracomelia), an extremely rare appearance of congenital anomalic limb in a Nepalese child and its embryological basis

  • Ameet Kumar Jha (Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. Matthew's University School of Medicine) ;
  • Samal Nauhria (Department of Pathology, St. Matthew's University School of Medicine) ;
  • Sabyasachi Maity (Department of Physiology, Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, St. George's University School of Medicine)
  • Received : 2023.06.30
  • Accepted : 2023.08.11
  • Published : 2023.12.31
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Abstract

Polymelia is an extremely rare congenital anomaly where an individual is born with an abnormally developed extra or supernumerary limb which is generally shrunken and functionless. A case of thoracomelia (a type of polymelia) was observed macroscopically and confirmed radiologically in 1.5 years old boy born in Nepal with an abnormal supernumerary upper limb attached to his back in the thoracic region. The limb was successfully amputated, and the boy had a favorable outcome after surgical treatment, without any adverse effects or impairment. Understanding the embryogenesis of thoracomelia is essential for unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying this condition and potentially aiding in early diagnosis and intervention. This case report and review aims to shed light on the intricate processes governing forelimb formation and their perturbations leading to thoracomelia.

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References

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