Preauricular sinsues or pits are often associated with which of the following?

Preauricular sinuses or pits are small indents or openings located near the ear, which can be indicators of underlying anatomical issues. The correct answer, relating preauricular sinuses to renal abnormalities, is based on the understanding that these abnormalities are part of a broader congenital syndrome.

Studies have shown that individuals with preauricular sinuses are at an increased risk for renal anomalies, such as renal agenesis or ectopic kidneys, due to embryological development issues during the early stages of gestation. The kidneys and the structures of the ear have a common embryological origin, which is why abnormalities can coexist.

While preauricular sinuses can occur in isolation and may not always accompany renal changes, their presence should prompt a thorough evaluation for potential renal anomalies, particularly in the context of syndromes like Branchio-Oto-Renal (BOR) syndrome, which directly links these ear abnormalities to renal issues.

This relationship highlights the importance of comprehensive assessments in newborns with preauricular sinuses, ensuring that any potential associated renal conditions are identified and managed appropriately.