The vertebral abnormalities in this case were limited to the thoracic region. The defect in fusion of the laminae of the fourth thoracic vertebra could not be visualised properly, though was evident clinically. The parents and other siblings of the case did not reveal any abnormality on clinical examination, but they could not be persuaded to have roentgenological investigations, so hereditary influence could not be studied. The deformity was less obvious in infancy but became more apparent as the child grew up.