Which of the following conditions is identified by hair tufts or dimples above the spinal defect?

The presence of hair tufts or dimples above a spinal defect is a characteristic finding associated with spina bifida occulta. This condition involves a defect in the bony encasement of the spinal cord, usually in the lumbar or sacral region, where there is incomplete closure of the neural tube.

In spina bifida occulta, the defect is typically not visible on the surface, as the skin remains intact. However, cutaneous markers such as hair tufts, dimples, pigmented lesions, or hemangiomas may be present at the site of the defect. These markers can indicate underlying abnormalities of the spinal cord or nerves, making it important for clinicians to be aware of them during evaluation.

In contrast, myelomeningocele is the more severe form of spina bifida, where the spinal cord and nerves protrude through an opening in the spine, leading to more significant neurological deficits and is usually not associated with hair tufts or dimples. Conditions like arthrogryposis and clubfoot are musculoskeletal abnormalities that do not involve the spinal cord or its defects, and thus do not present with these specific signs.