A neonate presents with a clear discharge from an otherwise normal-appearing umbilical cord. This finding most likely indicates which condition?

• A. Patent Urachus
• B. Omphalitis
• C. Umbilical Hernia
• D. Umbilical Granuloma

Answer: (A)

Clear discharge from an otherwise normal-appearing umbilical cord in a newborn points to a patent urachus, a failure of the channel between the bladder and the umbilicus to close after birth. Because this tract remains open, urine can drain through the umbilicus, producing a watery, clear discharge that may prompt leakage with voiding. This differs from omphalitis, which would present with redness, warmth, tenderness, and purulent or foul-smelling discharge from an infected stump; a umbilical granuloma presents as a persistently moist, pink granulation tissue at the base of the umbilicus after the stump has fallen off; and a umbilical hernia shows a bulge at the umbilicus that enlarges with crying or straining rather than clear drainage.