Phocomelia
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Phocomelia is a congenital malformation of the limbs characterized by hypoplasia or aplasia of the long bones. This condition causes the hands or feet to attach directly to the trunk, giving the fetus a seal-like appearance.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
PHOCOMELIA (from the Greek phoke—seal and melos—limb), a developmental malformation of the limbs (e.g., the humerus, femur, forearm, or lower leg), characterized by their hypoplasia or aplasia. In this condition, the hands or feet may attach directly to the trunk, which gives the fetus the appearance of a seal. See also Arm, Ectromelia.
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“Phocomelia.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/phocomelia/