Challenges in the management of caudal duplication syndrome

Abstract

Caudal duplication syndrome (CDS) is a rare developmental anomaly in which embryonic cloaca and notochord structures are duplicated [1]. Due to the diverse clinical manifestation and rarity of CDS, it is crucial to report every case and to share experience and outcomes of individually adjusted management plans. We report here the case of a 2-year-old girl born with duplication of the urogenital (bladder, urethra, uterus, vagina, vulva) and gastrointestinal (gallbladder, appendix vermiformis) systems. Additionally, coccygeal agenesis, lipomyelomeningocele and vertical talus were present. A thorough examination and urological reconstructive surgery were performed. While there may be a desire from patients, parents and healthcare specialists to modify all malformations to an anatomically correct state, the current opinion is that only anatomical variants that influence function should be modified. Consent from patients should be sought for decisions regarding more sensitive matters such as vulva surgery for cosmetic reasons or correction of anatomical variants without functional consequences.