[Prenatal diagnosis of a coccygeal teratoma--consequences for continued pregnancy]

The complex problem of a coccygeal teratoma diagnosed prenatally is described, using a case report as basis. The possibility of a coccygeal teratoma should always be considered in solid and/or cystic processes in the caudal range of the foetus when performing differential diagnosis in which possible disturbances of neural tube occlusion and rare neurogenic tumours should be included. After having confirmed the diagnosis of a coccygeal teratoma via supplementary examinations and after having excluded other concomitant foetal malformations, the physician should communicate with the parents while considering the duration of pregnancy and the extent of the tumour. Whether abortion should be performed or whether the pregnancy should continue, is a decision which can only be arrived at, first of all, after full clarification of the expected malformation and, secondly, after ensuring closest possible interdisciplinary cooperation between obstetrician, neonatologist, paediatric surgeon and genetic engineer; as a matter of fact, such cooperation is absolutely imperative. In case of small coccygeal teratomas, it will be necessary to plan the time and mode of delivery as early as possible and to make sure that the newborn receives immediate surgical attention post partum by the paediatric surgeon.