Which finding on the plantar surface is normal for a term newborn?

Which finding on the plantar surface is normal for a term newborn?

• A. Foot deformity
• B. Clubbing
• C. Limited plantar creases
• D. Plantar creases up entire sole

Answer: (D)

Full plantar creases across the entire sole reflect normal maturation of the skin and foot in a term newborn. As gestational age increases, the plantar surface develops more creases; preterm infants typically have fewer and more limited creases due to less skin and tissue maturity. So seeing creases that extend over the entire sole indicates a normal, mature presentation for a term baby. Foot deformities are structural abnormalities, clubbing is not a typical newborn plantar finding, and limited plantar creases would suggest prematurity rather than normal term maturation.

Full plantar creases across the entire sole reflect normal maturation of the skin and foot in a term newborn. As gestational age increases, the plantar surface develops more creases; preterm infants typically have fewer and more limited creases due to less skin and tissue maturity. So seeing creases that extend over the entire sole indicates a normal, mature presentation for a term baby. Foot deformities are structural abnormalities, clubbing is not a typical newborn plantar finding, and limited plantar creases would suggest prematurity rather than normal term maturation.