A true human tail in neonate

Abstract

Human tails are rare congenital anomalies and describe protrusions located around the midline of the lumbosacral region covered by skin, representing an embryonic trace. These lumbosacral skin appendages are often associated with hidden spinal dysraphism and other malformations such as lipoma and anchored cord syndrome. They are classified into real tails or pseudo-tails. In this article, we report the case of a newborn male with the presence of a cutaneous appendix of approximately 12 cm in the left paravertebral lumbosacral region. Due to their common ectodermal origin, lumbosacral cutaneous appendages and other skin lesions are an important indication of nervous system involvement, and a comprehensive investigation with imaging exams is essential for a therapeutic approach and adequate follow-up, reducing the risk of progressive neurological sequelae. After an investigation that did not show any associated nerve alteration, the lesion was resected uneventfully.

Keywords

• Human tail
• Occult spinal dysraphism
• Cutaneous appendage