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Prenatally diagnosed human caudal appendage: a case report
Jason D Wright1, Sara J Marder, Sajeena Geevarghese
1Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA. wrightj@msnotes.wustl.edu
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|August 13, 2004
Summary
A rare human tail (caudal appendage) in a fetus may indicate a serious spinal cord defect. Early ultrasound detection is crucial for prompt diagnosis and management of this congenital anomaly.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Fetal Development
- Neonatal Surgery
Background:
- The caudal appendage, or human tail, is a rare congenital anomaly.
- It originates from the lumbosacrococcygeal region of the spine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of fetal caudal appendages.
- To emphasize the association with underlying spinal cord defects.
Main Methods:
- Case study of a pregnant woman with suspected neural tube defect.
- Utilized ultrasound for fetal and neonatal spinal imaging.
- Examined a neonate with a diagnosed caudal appendage.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound revealed a posterior, echogenic protrusion superior to the fetal buttocks.
- A fetal caudal appendage was identified at the S-4 level.
- Neonatal spinal ultrasound demonstrated a tethered spinal cord extending to S-4 towards the appendage.
Conclusions:
- Fetal caudal appendage should be considered in ultrasound differential diagnoses of lumbosacral protrusions.
- A caudal appendage in a neonate necessitates a thorough investigation for spinal cord abnormalities.