Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

A faun tail nevus is an indication of which condition?

1. Down syndrome

2. Infantile scoliosis

3. Congenital heart disease

4. Spina bifida

The correct answer is: Spina bifida

A faun tail nevus is a cutaneous marker that is associated with spina bifida, particularly in cases where it is present in a midline distribution on the lower back. This type of nevus can serve as an external sign that may indicate underlying neural tube defects such as spina bifida occulta. In this condition, the spinal canal does not close completely, which can result in various symptoms depending on the severity and type of spina bifida present. The presence of a faun tail nevus may prompt further investigation, such as imaging studies, to assess for any associated spinal anomalies or defects. Other conditions listed, like Down syndrome, infantile scoliosis, and congenital heart disease, are not typically linked to the presence of a faun tail nevus. While these conditions may have their own set of clinical features or associated cutaneous markers, a faun tail nevus is specifically indicative of potential spina bifida and serves as an important clinical cue for healthcare providers in assessing the overall health and potential neurological integrity of a patient.