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Sacral dimples, also known as sacrococcygeal or coccygeal dimples or pits, are a common cutaneous (relating to the skin) anomaly found during the neonatal spinal examination. These are shallow or deep indentations on the lower back (lower sacral region), just above the crease of the buttocks. Studies suggest that sacral dimples are a benign condition and require no treatment (1).
However, if the sacral dimples are large, located farther away 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 (2). Your doctor is the best person to determine the underlying cause and treat it.
Sacral dimples are found in 1.8%–7.2% of newborns and are usually detected during routine examinations (2). The exact cause for this congenital condition is not known.
If you have spotted a sacral dimple on your newborn’s body, read on as we tell you the reasons, types, and treatment options for sacral dimples in babies.
Types Of Sacral Dimples
Sacral dimples are of two types.
- Typical sacral dimples: These are located on the skin of the lower back, near the crease of the buttocks. Usually, you will notice no other skin changes.
- Atypical sacral dimples: In this type, the dimple 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 your infant’s pediatrician if 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 of scoliosis
- Congenital dislocation of the hips
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 the movement of the spinal cord withing the spinal canal.
- Spina bifida: This is a mild condition wherein the spine doesn’t close around the spinal cord completely and remains within the spinal canal. Spina bifida may not cause any symptoms.
- Dermal sinus tract: This refers to an abnormal connection between the skin and spine. It can lead to infection.
Diagnosis Of Sacral Dimples
Sacral dimples are usually identified during the routine neonatal physical 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 near the sacral dimple, they might recommend the following tests to rule out spinal cord problems.
Ultrasonography: This 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 infant’s doctor may order an MRI.
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 and avoid fecal matter from getting into it.
If your infant’s doctor diagnoses an atypical sacral dimple, they might prescribe the necessary treatment.
Sacral dimples are normal in most babies. If your child shows no additional symptoms, you need not worry. All you would need to do is keep it from getting dirty. However, if your pediatrician diagnoses an atypical sacral dimple in your newborn, it is important to get your baby evaluated by a neurologist.