A Rare Sonographic Case of Caudal Duplication Versus Polymelia

Abstract

Caudal duplication is a rare condition that results in varying degrees of duplication of organs within the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, reproductive, spinal, and vertebral systems. Polymelia is a rare congenital defect that presents as supernumerary limbs. This case report describes a fetus with characteristics of both conditions but does not present with the classic scenario of either condition.

Congenital incomplete duplication of lower extremity (polymelia) accompanied with anorectal malformation and unilateral deafness

“…The utility of ultrasound in detecting prenatal polymelia has recently been reported. 2,3 Although prenatal diagnosis was not possible in our patient, accompanying malformations must be investigated when polymelia is suspected on prenatal ultrasound examination.…”

Polymelia (thoracomelia), an extremely rare appearance of congenital anomalic limb in a Nepalese child and its embryological basis

“…A neonate born in Niger with several congenital malformations on the posterior midline and the most rostral malformation was a polymelic limb at the level of the lumbar vertebrae composed of 2 long bones, a foot and 3 toes [ 6 ]. A case of dipygus with multiple extremities where the male fetus had 3 pelvises and 6 lower extremities, including feet and toes but no duplication anomalies or evidence of twinning was reported [ 7 ]. Another case of a newborn female with a tail-like extra right leg, which unfortunately was not detected during the routine antenatal ultrasonography, was reported [ 8 ].…”

Incomplete Caudal Duplication With Correction of Pygomelia in a Dog

“…Congenital malformations can be induced by genetic or environmental factors or both (Scholl & Thacker, 2021). Abnormalities in embryogenesis also cause these malformations.…”

“…The primary etiology and processes of caudal duplication and congenital limb abnormalities have remained unknown (Scholl & Thacker, 2021;Hirschberg et al, 2012). Beyond genetic changes, environmental variables such as Lupinus species consumption, viral infections, or exogenous hormone therapies are thought to induce congenital duplications (Murondoti & Busayi, 2001;Kaufman, 2004).…”