Foetal sacrococcygeal teratoma: extremes in clinical presentation

Wee WW, Tagore S, Tan JVK, Yeo GSH
Correspondence: Dr Wee Wei-Wei, wcube@hotmail.com

ABSTRACT
Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is a congenital tumour that can be diagnosed by ultrasonography (USG). We present our experience with the management of two cases of SCT in our institution between 2008 and 2009. In the first case, SCT was diagnosed at 17 weeks’ gestation. The patient was followed up with fortnightly USG to monitor the tumour size, foetal growth and signs of foetal hydrops. The patient delivered a baby girl by Caesarean section at 37 weeks, with good Apgar scores. The neonate underwent an uneventful resection of SCT on Day 1 of life. In the second case, SCT was diagnosed at 20 weeks during screening. In view of foetal hydrops and anaemia, the patient underwent three in utero foetal blood transfusions. A baby boy was delivered by Caesarean section at 28 weeks. There was a large friable SCT with massive haemorrhage. Despite maximal resuscitative efforts, the neonate died 30 minutes after birth.

Keywords: foetal hydrops, in utero foetal blood transfusion, prenatal diagnosis, sacrococcygeal teratoma, ultrasonography
Singapore Med J 2011; 52(6): e118-e123