Case Report of a Rapidly Growing Sacrococcygeal Teratoma: A Planned Preterm Cesarean Delivery May Improve Fetal Outcome

Abstract

Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is the most commonly diagnosed congenital tumor during the neonatal period. The outcome of SCT is dependent on the growth rate, the presence of solid components in cancer, and the presence or absence of high flow cardiac involvement of the fetus. This case report presents the management and outcome of a pregnant woman carrying a fetus with a rapidly growing SCT. Confirmation of diagnosis was based on the universal prenatal ultrasound examination standards. Eventually, the patient delivered a girl weighing 2.9 kg, including the neoplasm, by a planned Cesarean section. The newborn received one dose of surfactant and underwent complete resection of the teratoma on the second day with a favorable outcome. This case report aims to show that rapidly growing SCT requires frequent antenatal follow-up with serial prenatal ultrasound examinations, optimum timing, mode, and appropriate place of delivery for a better fetal outcome. Keywords: Prenatal diagnosis, Preterm delivery, Rapidly growing neoplasm, Sacrococcygeal teratoma, Surgical resection of teratoma