Experience with Human Tail and its Outcome

Abstract

There are some common genetic heritages between human and mammals. Human tail, though rare is one of the most noticeable. Till the date, around 60 cases reported in the literature. A true human tail is a benign vestigial caudal cutaneous structure composed of adipose, connective tissue, muscle, vessels and nerves. A true human tail can be distinguished from a pseudotail as the latter is commonly associated with underlying spinal dysraphism, which requires specialised management. We report a case series of four caudal appendages. Two clients were infants, while others two were toddler and presented with cutaneous appendage arising from the lumbosacral region. Out of four, only one had associated spinal dysraphism and neurological manifestation while others did not have spinal dysraphism and neurological manifestation. The appendage was removed by the surgical excision. Clinicians should emphasise the use of ’true tail’ and ’pseudo-tail’ as the specific disparate terms as the clinical, radiological and histological findings of these conditions differs significantly, along with the management strategies and outcomes.

A Unique Presentation of Amniotic Band Syndrome: A Newborn With a Tail

“…True tails are distinguished from pseudo-tails by the lack of an associated spinal dysraphism. 6 In our case, after excision, the appendage was found to be composed of fibroadipose tissue and skin. Most cases reported in the literature are actually pseudo-tails.…”

Pseudotail with closed neural tube defect and neurogenic bladder masquerading as posterior urethral valve: a case report

“…Human tail is a midline protrusion in caudal region having combination of muscle, adipose tissue, and covered with skin [4]. During the 5th and 6th gestational week, the human embryo has a tail with 10-12 caudal vertebrae [1]. This tail usually regresses by reduction in the number of vertebrae and fusion, leaving behind the vestigial coccyx.…”

“…The most common site of origin of human tail is the lumbosacrococcygeal region. Till date, around 60 cases have been reported in the literature [1]. Presence of human tail is a tell-tale sign of underlying spinal dysraphism and tethered cord [2] which may be associated with neurological deficit in the form of bowel/bladder incontinence and lower limb weakness.…”