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Ectopic fingerlike structure in the thoracic region. Case report
E Ishikawa1, A Matsumura, T Enomoto
1Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
Journal of Neurosurgery
|October 16, 2001
Summary
A rare congenital anomaly presented as a finger-like protrusion from a baby's back. Surgical removal revealed it contained bone, cartilage, and skin, suggesting an ectopic finger and fingernail.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Pediatric surgery
- Dermatology
Background:
- Congenital anomalies present unique diagnostic and management challenges in pediatric surgery.
- Cutaneous lesions at birth require thorough investigation to rule out underlying developmental abnormalities.
Observation:
- A 7-month-old female infant presented with a finger-like appendage on her posterior thoracic region, noted since birth.
- The 3 cm protrusion contained angiomatous and lipomatous tissue, with imaging revealing three bones and spinal dysraphism.
- Histological examination confirmed the presence of nail, bone, cartilage, and skin within the appendage.
Findings:
- The appendage was identified as a rare form of ectopic finger and fingernail, distinct from typical caudal appendages.
- Imaging demonstrated a connection to the spinal cord, necessitating surgical intervention.
- Surgical removal involved excision of the appendage and an intradural mass, along with laminectomy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering unusual presentations of congenital malformations.
- Understanding the embryological basis of such ectopic structures is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Surgical management aims to address both the external anomaly and potential neurological involvement.
