Sacrococcygeal teratoma in children: Single center experience

Introduction: Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) represent the most common benign and malignant germ cell tumors (GCT) in newborns and infants developing from primordial germ cells of the human embryo. Most of them are benign, however those presenting later in life and having major intra-pelvic component have greater malignant potential. Early and complete excision of the SCT has been the mainstay of successful management. The aim of this study is to describe the patient's details, management done, histopathology of the tumor, recurrence and the over all outcome of patients with SCT. Materials and Methods: Patients with histological diagnosis of sacrococcygeal teratoma during the period of January 2014 and October 2016 were included in this retrospective observational study. Data was collected regarding age, gender, mode of presentation, associated anomalies, Altman's classification, investigations, treatment modality, tumor histology according to type of tumour with margin of resection, and outcome of management. All the diagnosed cases of SCT presenting during the above duration were included for study. Results: Twenty eight patients were included in the study. Out of them 75% were females and 25% were males. 32.14% presented during neonatal period. 78.57% presented with external mass. The tumour was completely resected by sacral approach in 22 patients and by combined abdominosacral approach in 06 patients. Recurrence was detected in one patients (3.57%); with Altman types 1 mature teratoma. Patients were followed for a duration ranged between 1 months and 3 years. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and early complete enblock excision of the tumor with the coccyx was mainstay of treatment with good prognosis. Late presentation and the presence of malignant changes are associated with poor prognosis. Intraoperative spillage of the tumor should be avoided. Overall survival of SCT is high.