Lumbar digit

Case contributed by Shirish Paul Ganta
Diagnosis possible

Presentation

Slow-growing swelling in the lower back

Patient Data

Age: 4 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

Osseous structure with clear corticomedullary differentiation (digit) pseudo-articulating with spinous process of L3 vertebra. There is another small osseous structure pseudo-articulating with this digit posteriorly (phalanx).

Multilevel spina bifida noted from L2 to S1.

Case Discussion

A lumbar digit is an extremely rare developmental anomaly. It is usually associated with one or more pseudo-articulations.

It must be differentiated from heterotopic ossification, osteochondroma, and traumatic avulsion injuries.

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