Dermoid Sinus
A dermoid sinus is an embryological defect with resultant failure of separation of the skin during normal developmental closure of neural tube. This results in a connection from the spinal cord to the skin. A dermoid sinus may appear as small indentations or openings in the skin, often associated with an abnormal hair pattern. In some instances, fluid will exude from the abnormal skin area and may be associated with local dermatitis. The associated adhesion between the spinal cord elements and the overlying skin may result in a tethering of these tissues together.
Age of Onset: Clinical signs can present at any age, however, the defect will be present since birth.
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Variable - the presence and severity of signs is related to the degree of inflammation and infection associated with the defect.
Variable - the presence and severity of signs is related to the degree of inflammation and infection associated with the defect.
Clinical Signs:
Posture and Appearance
Indentations within the skin
Tense band of tissue felt along dorsal midline
Draining tracts associated with the defect
Movement
Paresis
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Urinary incontinence
Fecal incontinence
Painful Reactions
Hyperesthesia
Posture and Appearance
Indentations within the skin
Tense band of tissue felt along dorsal midline
Draining tracts associated with the defect
Movement
Paresis
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Urinary incontinence
Fecal incontinence
Painful Reactions
Hyperesthesia
Variable: A dermoid sinus of the head was reported by Danciu et al., 2023, however dermoid sinuses involving the nasal or spinal regions are more commonly reported
Unknown
To read more about this disease click below:
