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Is Having 6 Toes In One Foot Unusual?

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Posted on Mon, 15 Dec 2014
Question: My wife has a 6th toe. This is disturbing to me. Is it unusual?
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
one of the

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Extra digits on the hands or feet is referred to as polydactyl.

It is not uncommon and can occur in 1 out of every 500 births. It is one of the most common birth differences that can be seen.
It is usually genetic but is not associated with any other issues or illnesses.

It would not be associated with any other health problems in your wife.

Normally these digits are removed for social/cosmetic reasons mainly.

If the digit is not fully developed then it can be removed by cutting off blood supply to the area.
If it is a fully developed digit then removal would require minor surgery.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For further follow-up it is advisable to consult an emergency medicine specialist. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Is Having 6 Toes In One Foot Unusual?

Brief Answer: one of the Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Extra digits on the hands or feet is referred to as polydactyl. It is not uncommon and can occur in 1 out of every 500 births. It is one of the most common birth differences that can be seen. It is usually genetic but is not associated with any other issues or illnesses. It would not be associated with any other health problems in your wife. Normally these digits are removed for social/cosmetic reasons mainly. If the digit is not fully developed then it can be removed by cutting off blood supply to the area. If it is a fully developed digit then removal would require minor surgery. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions