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A sacral dimple or pilonidal dimple is a small hole located just above the buttocks. The name comes from the sacrum, the bone at the end of the spine, over which the dimples are found. More than 2% of babies may have such dimples; almost all of these are very minor. However, it may be a sign of Spina bifida: even so this is usually the spina bifida occulta form which is the least serious kind. Sacral dimples are usually spotted in post-natal checks by a pediatrician, who will check:
Can the bottom of the dimple be seen to be covered with skin? If not, it may be that the neural tube is not completely closed.
Is there a tuft of hair in the dimple? This may also indicate problems.
Are there any other problems in the examination of the baby, such as weak lower limbs.
How close to the buttocks is the dimple? The lower, the better.
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