Camptodactyly and clinodactyly - new understanding of known deformities.

Camptodactyly and clinodactyly are most commonly considered just cosmetic defects, but they can pose a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, mainly because of their apparently similar clinical presentation. For years, experts have been arguing over definitions, descriptions, and therapeutic approaches to these deformities, with some favoring surgical approach, some advocating conservative treatment, while others are prone to use a combination of the aforementioned approaches. This article provides an overview of the current literature on two different entities, with emphasis on differences in clinical presentation and treatment modalities. This may improve the understanding and recognition of these deformities in children, and help the attending physician select the most appropriate therapy for the individual patient.