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Sacral dimple

Definition

A sacral dimple is an indentation, present at birth, in the skin on the lower back. It's usually located just above the crease between the buttocks. Also called pilonidal dimples, most sacral dimples are small and shallow. Sometimes, a sacral dimple may be accompanied by increased hair growth in this area.

Most of the time, sacral dimples are harmless and don't require you or your child to receive treatment. Rarely, a sacral dimple may indicate a serious underlying abnormality of the spine or spinal cord.

To rule out an abnormality, your doctor may recommend an imaging test. If an abnormality is discovered, treatment depends on the underlying cause.


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Oct 6, 2008