Giant thoracolumbosacral teratoma in an infant

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Developmental Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Sacrococcygeal teratomas are congenital tumors, typically located at the tailbone.
• Unusually high intraspinal extension of these tumors is rare and presents complex surgical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of sacrococcygeal teratoma with significant intraspinal extension.
• To discuss the clinical presentation, surgical management, and outcomes of such cases.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 7-month-old male with a gluteal mass.
• Diagnostic imaging using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to delineate tumor extent.
• Two-staged surgical resection of the tumor.
• Histopathological examination for diagnosis.
• Postoperative follow-up for neurological and functional recovery.

Main Results:

• The tumor extended from the sacrococcygeal region up to the mid-thoracic spine.
• Complete tumor removal was achieved in two stages.
• Histology confirmed a benign teratoma.
• Associated neurogenic bladder and constipation showed spontaneous improvement.
• No neurological deficits were noted during a 3-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Complete surgical resection is feasible for sacrococcygeal teratomas with high intraspinal extension.
• Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can lead to favorable outcomes.
• Benign teratomas, even with extensive involvement, may not result in permanent neurological damage.