PEDIATRIC UMBILICAL PROBLEMS

After birth, the normal umbilicus is a relatively simple structure. Du ring the development of the embryo, however, this region is highly com plex. Vestigial of the umbilical cord can be responsible for umbilical inflammation and drainage. This article reviews the embryology of the umbilicus and discusses a number of clinical problems seen in this ar ea. The authors' aim is to aid the primary care pediatrician in evalua ting, treating, and appropriately referring umbilical problems encount ered in office practice.