[Faun tail and sacral hemangioma associated with occult spinal dysraphism].

INTRODUCTION

Hemangiomas are the most frequent skin tumor of childhood. Usually, a "wait and see" policy is adopted. However, a sacral hemangioma may reveal occult neurodysraphism.

CASE REPORT

MRI discovered lipomyelomeningocele and a tethered spinal chord in an asymptomatic 4-month-old boy with sacral hemangioma and faun tail. Because of absence of neurological defect only surgery of the caudal appendage was performed for the moment.

DISCUSSION

Midline lombosacral lesions, as well as lipomas, hirsutism or pilonidal cyst, may be associated with occult spinal defect; the most severe is tethered chord. Renal or ano-genital anomalies can be also associated.

CONCLUSION

MRI is necessary in case of midline sacral hemangioma to detect underlying anomalies.