AEMCA Practice Exam

Which fracture is referred to as a boxer's fracture?

1. Fracture of the 5th metacarpal

2. Fracture of the radius

3. Fracture of the humerus

4. Fracture of the ulna

The correct answer is: Fracture of the 5th metacarpal

A boxer's fracture refers specifically to a fracture of the 5th metacarpal, which is located in the hand and corresponds to the little finger. This type of fracture typically occurs when a person punches an object, leading to the impact stressing the bone in a way that results in a break, especially at the neck of the metacarpal. The injury is symptomatic of a forceful impact, often seen in boxing or similar activities where the hand might connect with a hard surface. In contrast, fractures of the radius, humerus, and ulna involve different bones and mechanisms of injury typically not associated with the action of punching, which is why those options do not apply in this context. Understanding this specific terminology is essential for identifying types of injuries and their usual causes in clinical settings.