Caudal regression sequence

Caudal regression syndrome (CRS) may have different causes in different people. In many cases, the cause is unclear.^[1][2] It is thought to be a multifactorial disorder, which means that genetic and environmental factors likely interact to cause CRS.^[2]

Diabetes in a pregnant woman (maternal diabetes) is a known risk factor for CRS.^[2] Increased blood sugar levels and other associated metabolic problems may harm fetal development, increasing the chance to develop CRS. The risk is further increased if the mother's diabetes is poorly managed.^[2]

Some researchers believe CRS may be caused by a disruption of mesoderm development in the fetus, which impairs normal formation of the skeleton, gastrointestinal system, and genitourinary system.^[2] Others have suggested it may result from the presence of an abnormal artery in the abdomen, which may divert blood flow from the lower body areas of the developing fetus. It is unclear whether abnormal mesoderm development causes reduced blood flow, or whether reduced blood flow causes abnormal mesoderm development. Many scientists think that the cause of CRS is a combination of abnormal mesoderm development and decreased blood flow to the caudal (lower) areas of the developing fetus.^[2]

Sporadic, inconclusive studies have implicated that teratogens other than diabetes in the mother may play a role in caudal regression syndrome (CRS). Retinoic acid and minoxidil solution have been associated with CRS in infants of several non-diabetic women. Teratogenic agents in the form of drugs such as oral hypoglycemics (prescription medications used to control diabetes), estrogens, and progestins have been implicated as well, but they have not been proven to specifically cause the condition.^[1]

To our knowledge there have not been any reports of caudal regression syndrome being caused by exposure to ciprofloxacin during pregnancy.