Case report: pseudotail with dermal sinus tract and tethered cord

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Pediatric Surgery
• Neurology

Background:

• Pseudotails are rare dermal appendages originating from the lumbosacral area.
• They are often associated with underlying spinal dysraphism, a spectrum of congenital anomalies.

Observation:

• This report details a case of a pseudotail in a healthy newborn female.
• Initial sonographic imaging revealed a tethered cord and a dermal sinus tract.

Findings:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and subsequent surgical correlation confirmed the presence of a tethered cord and dermal sinus tract.
• Despite the spinal anomalies, the infant was otherwise healthy.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of thorough evaluation of pseudotails, even in seemingly healthy newborns.
• Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing associated spinal dysraphism and preventing neurological complications.