Sacral dimple

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A sacral dimple (also termed pilonidal dimple or spinal dimple)^[1] is a small depression in the skin, located just above the buttocks.^[2][3][4][5] The name comes from the sacrum, the bone at the end of the spine, over which the dimples are found.

Sacral dimples are rare, occurring in up to 4% of the population.^[1][5] The majority of these dimples are minor and do not represent any underlying disease;^[1][3][5] however, the minority may be a sign of disease, notably spina bifida.^[3][5] Even so, this is usually the spina bifida occulta form, which is the least serious kind.^[3] Additionally, a sacral dimple may be indicative of a possible kidney problem that can be checked with an ultrasound.

Sacral dimples are usually spotted in post-natal checks by a pediatrician,^[3][5] who will check:

• whether the floor of the dimple can be seen to be covered with skin;
• whether there is a tuft of hair in the dimple;
• whether there are any other problems such as weak lower limbs;
• the distance from the buttocks to the dimple (closer is better).

See also[]

• Dimples of Venus
• Pilonidal sinus

References[]

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