Sacrococcygeal teratomas in newborns: a comprehensive review for the radiologists

Acta Radiol. 2018 Feb;59(2):236-246. doi: 10.1177/0284185117710680. Epub 2017 May 22.

Abstract

Sacrococcygeal teratomas are the most common solid tumor in newborn infants. The diagnosis is not difficult in many cases; however, there should be additional information on imaging studies in order to manage those infants properly. Details include histology, morphologic classification, complications such as rupture, bleeding, and mass effects on the adjacent structures. Although imaging features cannot accurately predict the histologic subtypes of the tumors, thorough evaluation of the imaging features can help distinguish malignant tumors from benign tumors. In this article, pathogenesis, histological characteristics, clinical considerations, and morphologic characteristics will be discussed.

Keywords: Sacrococcygeal teratoma; computed tomography; congenital; germ cell tumor; magnetic resonance imaging; neonate.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Sacrococcygeal Region*
  • Teratoma* / classification
  • Teratoma* / diagnosis
  • Teratoma* / embryology
  • Teratoma* / pathology