The faun tail and the plastic surgeon

Congenital spinal abnormalities seen with spinal dysraphism, when not recognized and treated in a timely fashion, can cause devastating neurological deficits. These anomalies are often accompanied by cutaneous markers, e.g., faun tail. Early recognition of the association of these lesions with the underlying spinal anomalies will reduce the morbidity associated with this condition. At times, the management of the cutaneous marker will be of primary importance. A review of Roman mythology surrounding the name ascribed to this clinical condition is included. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.