Mature sacrococcygeal teratoma: A case report and literature review

Background: Sacrococcygeal teratomas are derived from embryonic germ cell layers. They present mostly in infancy and are extremely rare in adults; with an associated risk of malignancy. Modern imaging technique may be helpful to delineate the extent of the mass but surgical excision is generally indicated at the time of detection. Patients and methods: A case report is presented with a review of literature utilising MEDLINE, Microsoft Net and Yahoo search engines. Results: A three day old female baby presented with a mature sacrococcygeal teratoma containing well-developed limb buds. She had surgical excision and primary repair with good results. A two-year follow up utilising serial serum alpha-fetoprotein assay and CT Scan revealed no evidence of tumour recurrence. Conclusion: Sacrococcygeal teratoma is a rare tumour that may be benign or malignant. Complete excision is the primary therapy and is adequate if the tumour is benign. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are however indicated in malignant cases and in recurrence after previous excision.