Caudal regression syndrome (CRS)

What is caudal regression syndrome (CRS)?

Caudal regression syndrome is a rare congenital (present at birth) condition in which a child’s development in the lower (caudal) half of the body is impaired. This syndrome can impact the development of the lower back and limbs, the reproductive system and the gastrointestinal tract. The effects of this syndrome can range from mild to severe.

Risk factors

Babies whose mother has diabetes are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

What are the signs and symptoms of caudal regression syndrome (CRS)?

• Abnormalities of the kidneys, including the absence of one kidney (renal agenesis) or being located in the wrong area (misplaced kidney or ectopic kidney)

• Abnormalities of the spine

• Cleft lip or cleft palate (holes or spaces in lips or roof of mouth)

• Clubfoot (twisted foot or feet at birth) or webbed skin on the back of the knees

• Failure of the bladder to completely empty (neurogenic bladder)

• Increased urinary frequency

• Indentation on the skin of the lower back (sacral dimple)

• Ineffective bladder and bowel control

• Narrowing of the hips

• Reduced muscle mass in the legs

• Underdeveloped, flattened muscles of the buttocks

What are the causes of caudal regression syndrome (CRS)?

Genetic or environmental factors can cause caudal regression.