Gluteal Fold

Description

Posterior surface anatomy centers on the infragluteal fold (gluteal crease), the transverse skin fold marking the inferior contour of the nates where the buttock meets the proximal posterior thigh. Superior to the fold, the convexity corresponds largely to the bulk of gluteus maximus, with the sacrum and coccyx located medially and the greater trochanter projecting laterally at the level of the hip. Inferior to the crease, the posterior thigh contour aligns with the proximal hamstring compartment overlying the ischial tuberosity region. Skin tone and sex-specific body habitus are represented in a standing adult Black female model. Surface landmarks around the gluteal fold matter in day-to-day clinical work because they anchor orientation when deeper structures are not visible, and because the crease is often mistaken for the true inferior border of gluteus maximus. That distinction becomes relevant when teaching safe intramuscular injection technique, where the target remains the superolateral quadrant (or ventrogluteal site) to reduce the risk of sciatic nerve injury and to avoid the inferior gluteal vessels that course deep to gluteus maximus. Pressure and shear at the infragluteal region also drive common skin findings, from intertrigo and folliculitis to early pressure injury in immobile patients. A practical landmark. Use this asset in gross anatomy and surface anatomy curricula, clinical skills training for gluteal injection landmarks and posterior hip examination, and in dermatology, wound care, or plastic surgery publications discussing gluteal contour, fold asymmetry, or postsurgical scar placement. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.