Low-set ears in newborns should prompt evaluation for anomalies in which organ system?

• A. Cardiac system
• B. Nervous system
• C. Renal system
• D. Skeletal system

Answer: (C)

Low-set ears in a newborn are often a signal for possible renal abnormalities. The ears and kidneys can be affected together in several congenital syndromes, so infants with this ear finding frequently have or are at risk for urinary tract or kidney issues such as hydronephrosis, renal dysplasia, renal agenesis, or cystic kidney disease. Because some renal problems may not cause obvious symptoms right away, it’s important to evaluate the kidneys early with a renal ultrasound and basic urinalysis, with further testing as indicated. While other organ systems can be involved in various conditions, the strongest and most consistent association here is with the renal system, making it the appropriate system to assess.