Cone-shaped Epiphyses in the Hand: Population Frequencies, Anatomic Distribution and Developmental Stages

Cone-shaped epiphyses are not uncommon variants in the hands of normal populations, with the epiphyses of the fifth middle and first distal phalanges being the most commonly affected. As shown in 4,270 children from seven populations, as many as 12% of Guatemalan girls possess these epiphyses while a minimum frequency is observed in Southwestern Ohio white children. Cone epiphyses at different epiphyseal sites are significantly associated and there is a marked sex difference in their incidence at some sites. These epiphyses often are associated with reduced diaphyseal length and premature epiphyseal union.