Sacral Dimples in Newborn: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

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Sacral dimples in newborns are characterized by shallow or deep indentations on the lower back (lower sacral region), just above the crease of the buttocks. They are a common cutaneous (relating to the skin) anomaly found duringneonatalⁱXNewborn infant under four weeks old.spinal examinations. They are also known as sacrococcygeal or coccygeal dimples or pits.

According to studies, sacral dimples arebenignⁱXLikely not harmful.and require no medical intervention(1). They are found in1.8–7.2% of newbornsand are usually detected during routine examinations (2.). However, the exact cause of this congenital condition is unknown.

If the sacral dimples are large, located farther from the anus, or accompanied by a turf of hair, skin tag, or skin discoloration, they might be an indication of an underlying abnormality of the spinal cord. Hence, in such cases, consult your baby’s pediatrician to check if it is a cause for concern.

Read this post to learn about the reasons, types, and treatment options for sacral dimples in babies.

Types Of Sacral Dimples

Sacral dimples are of two types.

1. Typical sacral dimples: These are located on theskin of the lower back,near the crease of the buttocks. Usually, you will notice no skin changes other than the shallow depression near the tailbone (coccyx) end.

2. 非典型骶酒窝:这种类型的酒窝is located higher up on the back or off to the side, and the bottom of the dimple may not be seen. It may also be accompanied by skin discoloration, a patch of hair, a lump, or a skin tag(3).

Consult yourinfant’s pediatricianif you notice an atypical dimple on your baby’s body.

Symptoms Of Abnormal Sacral Dimples

Often, sacral dimples are benign and may not be a cause for concern. However, if you find the below symptoms, it could be due to an underlying medical condition(4).

• Sacral dimples accompanied by a patch of hair,a birthmark, a deviated buttock fold, or discharge
• Abnormal scan of the neonatal spinal column

• Weakness
• Loss of sensation
• Signs ofscoliosisⁱXAbnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
• Congenital dislocation of the hips
• Poor urine stream in boys
• PatulousⁱXExpanding from the center.anal opening

Possible Complications Of Sacral Dimples

Sacral dimples are associated with complications when they belong to the atypical type. These dimples usually indicate spinal cord issues. Some of the possible problems include(3)(5)

• Tethered spinal cord:In this condition, the spinal cord attaches to the tissue around the spine; thus, limiting themovement of the spinal cordwithin the spinal canal.

• Spina bifida:This is a mild condition wherein thespine doesn’t closearound the spinal cord completely and remains within the spinal canal.Spina bifidamay not cause any symptoms.

• Dermal sinus tract:This refers to anabnormal connectionbetween theskin and spine. It can lead to infection.

Diagnosis Of Sacral Dimples

Sacral dimples are usually identified during the routine neonatalphysical examination, and further investigations may not be required in the case of a typical sacral dimple.

However, if your doctor notices any abnormal skin changes or developmental defects near the sacrum or sacral dimple, they might recommend the following tests to rule out spinal cord problems.

Ultrasonography is considered a safe and cost-effective screening method for infants, as it is a noninvasive screening technique that does not have the risk of radiation(2).

Sometimes, your doctor may order anMRIⁱXA non-invasive imaging technology used for the detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of a disease.for the neonate or infant.

Treatment For Sacral Dimples

No specific treatment is needed if the sacral dimple is typical. However, the dimple or pit may collect dirt and sweat, which may increase the risk of an infection. So, try to keep the dimple area clean andavoid fecal matterfrom getting into it.

If your infant’s doctor diagnoses anatypical sacral dimple, they might prescribe the necessary treatment.

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