Abnormal finger phalanx morphology Angel-shaped phalanx 2018-10-14T13:49:41Z In some cases an ASP can grow into an inconspicuous brachydactyly after physeal closure. A phalangeal malformation that is termed angel-shaped phalanx (ASP), because of its resemblance to the angels used for decoration of Christmas trees. The various components of an angel-shaped phalanx are: diaphyseal cuff (wings), surrounding a meta-diaphyseal core (body), which may appear empty or structured with a cone-shaped epiphysis (skirt) and pseudoepiphysis (head).