Currarino Triad: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Currarino Triad?
A primary care doctor, such as a family doctor or pediatrician, is often the first to notice the signs. Treatment usually involves specialists, which may include a pediatric or colorectal surgeon, a neurosurgeon, or a geneticist. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Currarino triad is a rare condition that a person is born with. It involves three problems that happen together. The first is a malformation of the sacrum, which is the triangular bone at the base of the spine. The second is a mass near the tailbone. The third is an anorectal malformation, which means the opening of the rectum did not form normally.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary a lot from person to person. Some babies show signs right away, while others are not diagnosed until later in childhood or even adulthood. Common signs include long-lasting constipation, problems with the anal opening, and a sacral mass that may press on nearby nerves.
Causes and who gets it
Currarino triad is caused by a change in a gene, most often the HLXB9 gene, which is passed down in families. It follows an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning a child only needs to inherit the changed gene from one parent to have the condition.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors start with a physical exam and ask about symptoms and family history. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI of the lower spine, can show the sacrum defect and any mass near the tailbone. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends on which problems a person has and how serious they are. Constipation is often managed with diet changes, stool softeners, or medicines. Surgery may be needed to remove the mass near the tailbone or to repair the anorectal malformation.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with long-lasting constipation, problems with the anal opening, or a lump near the tailbone should see a doctor. Trouble with bladder or bowel control, back pain, or weakness in the legs also need medical attention. Because Currarino triad can run in families, relatives of someone diagnosed may want to ask a doctor about testing.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance for visits. Either one can coordinate care for Currarino triad by managing constipation, ordering imaging, arranging genetic testing, and handling follow-up visits. When surgery or specialist care is needed, they can refer the patient to the right doctor.
Common questions
Is Currarino triad the same for everyone who has it?
No. Some people have all three features, while others have only one or two. How serious it is also differs from person to person.
Can adults be diagnosed with Currarino triad?
Yes. Some people are not diagnosed until adulthood. This often happens after imaging done for back pain or constipation shows the sacral defect. A family diagnosis can also lead to testing in adults.
Will my children have it if I do?
Because it is autosomal dominant, each child of a person with the condition has a chance of inheriting it. A genetic counselor can explain the details for a specific family.
Is the mass near the tailbone always cancer?
Not always. The masses in Currarino triad are often benign, which means not cancer. Doctors usually recommend removal or close monitoring. Testing is the only way to know what a mass is.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Currarino triad
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) - Currarino triad - National Organization for Rare Disorders
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
