In China, Infant Is Born With Four-Inch Tail Growing from Its Buttocks, Know The Reason Behind This

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A remarkable occurrence at Hangzhou Children's Hospital in China has caught the attention of many. A baby was born with a four-inch tail, a condition that baffled medical professionals due to a birth defect.

The newborn's peculiar condition came to light after pediatrician Dr. Li shared footage of the baby's appendage online.

This rare occurrence took place at the Hangzhou Children's Hospital. Dr. Li believes that the tail, measuring approximately 10cm in length, could be due to the incomplete degeneration of the spinal column, hinting at a diagnosis of a tethered spinal cord.

He took to social media to share a video of the baby, highlighting the soft, boneless tail. Further examination through spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed Dr. Li's suspicions.

What Is A Tethered Spinal Cord?
This unusual feature is thought to be a result of incomplete degeneration, leading to a condition known as a tethered spinal cord. A tethered spinal cord is a serious condition where the spinal cord does not hang freely, as it normally would, but is instead abnormally attached to tissues around the base of the spine. This abnormal attachment can restrict movement and lead to a range of neurological issues.

The video showcasing this rare case has since gone viral on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, receiving over 34,000 likes and more than 145,000 shares.

This rare birth anomaly has precedent in China. A similar case was reported in 2014, involving a five-month-old baby, Nuo Nuo, who was diagnosed with spina bifida. This condition left a gap in Nuo Nuo's spine, and shortly after his birth, his mother noticed the growth of a tail, which eventually grew to five inches.

Despite the mother's wishes for her son's tail to be removed, surgeons in Changsha have advised against it. They believe that since the tail is connected to the baby's nervous system, removal could cause permanent damage.

Scientists suggest that the tailbone, or coccyx, is a vestigial remnant, hinting at our ancestors' tails which were used for balance while climbing trees. Each case like this provides valuable insights into human development and the complexities of our nervous system.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.