Pelvic digit: an uncommon developmental anomaly

Abstract

The radiological features of seven cases of pelvic digit discovered incidentally on plain radiographs are described and differentiation from other causes of new bone formation is discussed. Its recognition as a benign anomaly is important to avoid unnecessary investigation or intervention. An embryological theory of development of pelvic digit is proposed.

Pelvic Digit

“…McGlone et al (4) reported seven cases that were identified during intravenous urography; none of the patients had symptoms related to the pelvic digit. Van Breuseghem (5) described a patient with breast cancer whose pelvic digit was detected during screening for metastases; emphasis was placed on the importance of its radiologic recognition.…”

Doigt pelvien : une lésion rare

“…Cette anomalie osseuse congénitale rare peut survenir à n'importe quel niveau des os pelviens, et peut même être localisée entière-ment à l'intérieur des tissus mous de la paroi abdominale [2,4]. Occasionnellement, l'anomalie peut être bilatérale ou multiple [5,6]. Elle est généralement asymptomatique et découverte seulement fortuitement [7].…”

“…Généralement, son aspect est celui d'une côte ou d'une phalange avec une ou plusieurs articulations ou pseudoarticulations internes, comme dans le cas présent [6]. L'anomalie présente souvent une pseudo-articulation avec le squelette axial à sa base.…”

Benign osseous and articular abnormalities of the pelvis: a review of CT imaging findings

“…Although most commonly referred to as a "digit", the phalynx-like structure is hypothesized to arise from anomalous rib tissue [58,59]. Pelvic digits typically arise adjacent to the iliac bones but have been reported adjacent to the sacrum, coccyx, anterior abdominal wall, and the symphysis pubis.…”