a Child's Groin Indentation: Is It Spina Bifida?

The child has a depression in the groin area?

Hello doctor, my child is currently three years old and has a small circular indentation about one centimeter in diameter at the top of the gluteal cleft (which has been present since a very young age).
There is no hair growth.
Could this possibly be spina bifida? I did some research online and I'm very scared!

Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/24

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Most infants and young children with a small indentation above the buttocks are normal and healthy, and there is usually no cause for concern.
However, in very rare cases, there may be a hidden neural tube defect at the depth of this sacral dimple.
Warning signs include delayed or weak movement in the lower limbs, spasms, difficulties with bowel or bladder control, the presence of excessive hair or vascular lesions, or if the indentation is unusually large or deep.
If any of these risk factors are present, please seek a thorough neurological evaluation at a major hospital.

Reply Date: 2024/02/24

More Info

When it comes to a child's groin indentation, particularly a small, round, and shallow depression at the top of the groin area, it is understandable to be concerned about conditions like spina bifida. However, it is essential to approach this with a clear understanding of what spina bifida is and how it presents in children.

Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect that occurs when the spine does not close completely during early development in the womb. This condition can lead to various physical and neurological issues, depending on the severity and location of the defect. Common signs of spina bifida include visible defects in the spine, abnormal hair growth over the area, skin discoloration, or other skin changes such as dimples or tufts of hair. In some cases, there may be associated neurological symptoms, such as weakness or loss of sensation in the legs.

In your child's case, the presence of a small indentation without hair growth is less likely to indicate spina bifida, especially if there are no other associated symptoms or physical abnormalities. Many children can have benign skin variations or indentations that do not signify any underlying medical condition. These can include normal anatomical variations or minor skin conditions that do not require treatment.

However, it is crucial to monitor the indentation for any changes. If the indentation becomes more pronounced, changes in color, or if you notice any other symptoms such as weakness, changes in bowel or bladder function, or developmental delays, it would be prudent to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric neurologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to assess the spine and surrounding structures if there is any concern.

In summary, while it is natural to worry about potential conditions like spina bifida, the characteristics of your child's indentation suggest it may not be a cause for concern. Nonetheless, maintaining open communication with your child's healthcare provider is essential to ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly. Regular check-ups and monitoring will help ensure your child's health and development remain on track. If you have ongoing concerns, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation from a specialist.

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