A couple was shocked after their son was born with a total of 31 fingers despite there being no indications of his deformities on pre-natal scans.
November 21, 2025
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Parents Shocked After Baby Born With 31 Fingers Despite Normal Prenatal Scans
NEW DELHI — A young couple in India was left stunned when their newborn son entered the world with a total of 31 fingers and toes, despite months of routine prenatal checkups showing no sign of abnormalities. Doctors say the rare condition, which involves extreme polydactyly, may be one of the most unusual cases ever recorded.
A Completely Unexpected Birth
The child was born last week at a private hospital in Jaipur. According to hospital staff, the baby has:
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seven fingers on each hand
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eight toes on each foot
Both parents reported that every ultrasound and prenatal scan during the pregnancy appeared normal, showing no indicators of deformity or bone irregularities.
“We had no reason to expect anything unusual,” the mother said. “The doctors always told us the baby looked healthy. When he was born, we were in complete shock.”
A Rare and Complex Condition
Doctors believe the child has a severe form of polydactyly, a congenital condition where babies are born with extra fingers or toes. While mild cases are relatively common, having 31 digits is extraordinarily rare.
Dr. Anil Joshi, a pediatric specialist at the hospital, noted:
“This level of polydactyly is extremely unusual. The child appears stable, but a series of genetic and neurological tests will be required to understand the underlying cause.”
Experts say the condition may be linked to genetic mutations or developmental disruptions early in pregnancy, though in many cases the cause remains unknown.
Medical Team Evaluating Treatment Options
Doctors are currently performing detailed examinations, including bone scans and X-rays, to determine whether the extra digits are functional or fused. Surgical procedures may be required in the future, depending on the child’s mobility and overall health.
“Some digits may have functioning joints and nerves,” Dr. Joshi explained. “We need to carefully evaluate what can be removed safely and what will provide the child the best quality of life.”
Parents Conflicted But Hopeful
Though still overwhelmed, the parents say they are focusing on their son’s health rather than his appearance.
“Our only wish is that he lives a normal, happy life,” the father said. “We will do whatever the doctors advise.”
The case has drawn public attention and sympathy, with many medical professionals noting that, despite its rarity, the condition can often be treated successfully with modern surgical techniques.
A Story That Highlights the Limits of Prenatal Scans
Experts say this case underscores an important fact: while prenatal imaging can detect many abnormalities, it is not absolute.
“Ultrasounds are powerful tools, but they cannot catch everything,” Dr. Joshi said. “Rare conditions like this can still go undetected.”
A Journey Just Beginning
For now, the baby is reported to be healthy and feeding well. Doctors expect to follow his progress over the coming months before making decisions about surgery.