The metacarpal index of infants

Abstract

The metacarpal index of 50 children was measured at the ages of 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. The mean index and standard deviation at each age is presented. The index increases during the first 2 years and is higher in girls. The figures for the metacarpal index can be used for the diagnosis of arachnodactyly and Marfan's syndrome.