Latin Os metacarpale IV | FMA 23902 | |
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MeSH A02.835.232.087.319.550 | ||
The fourth metacarpal bone (metacarpal bone of the ring finger) is shorter and smaller than the third.
Contents
The base is small and quadrilateral; its superior surface presents two facets, a large one medially for articulation with the hamate, and a small one laterally for the capitate.
On the radial side are two oval facets, for articulation with the third metacarpal; and on the ulnar side a single concave facet, for the fifth metacarpal.
Clinical relevance
A shortened fourth metacarspal bone can be a symptom of Kallmann syndrome, a genetic condition which results in the failure to commence or the non-completion of puberty. A short fourth metacarpal bone can also be found in Turner syndrome, a disorder involving sex chromosomes.
A fracture of the fourth and/or fifth metacarpal bones transverse neck secondary due to axial loading is known as a boxer's fracture.
Ossification
The ossification process begins in the shaft during prenatal life, and in the head between 11th and 37th months.