Caudal Regression Syndrome (Sacral Agenesis Syndrome):
Characterized by an abnormal development of the caudal part of the
spine. Clinical features include absence or underdevelopment of the lower
vertebrae, pelvis, and coccyx, paralysis or paresis of the legs, anal and
urinary problems, hip dislocation and/or fixation, muscle atrophy, clubfoot,
polycystic kidneys, and hypospadias in the male. Other less frequent
anomalies include hydrocephaly, hypopituitarism, cleft lip/palate,
micrognathia, congenital heart defects, and polysyndactyly. Renal function
must be evaluated before anesthesia. There are no specific causes that have
been determined; however, 60% of individuals affected with this disorder
had diabetic mothers. An autosomal dominant inheritance has been suggested
in few cases.