Failure of Midline Fusion in a Neonate Mistaken as Trauma From Acute Sexual Assault

Abstract

In this case report, we present an 8-day-old female with failure of midline fusion, also known as perineal groove, that was mistaken for trauma from acute sexual assault and provide a review of the literature to improve the recognition and management of this condition. Failure of midline fusion is a rare congenital anomaly that has not been well studied and may mimic trauma from sexual assault. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the characteristics and clinical presentation of this entity may help medical providers differentiate failure of midline fusion from injury. Clinical awareness of failure of midline fusion needs to be improved through further study of its incidence, prevalence, pathogenesis, natural history, work-up, and treatment.