Management of Sacrococcygeal Teratomas in Pediatric Patients
Summary
The management of sacrococcygeal teratomas in paediatric patients centres on early detection, precise surgical intervention and vigilant long-term follow-up. Arising from totipotent cells at the caudal end of the embryo, these tumours range from mature, predominantly benign lesions to immature forms with malignant potential. Prenatal ultrasound, supplemented by MRI, enables classification according to extent, guiding decisions on in utero procedures or planned delivery. Definitive treatment involves complete resection of the mass and coccyx, minimising residual totipotent tissue that could lead to recurrence. Multidisciplinary teams co-ordinate neonatology, paediatric surgery and oncology to address perioperative risks, particularly in large or highly vascular lesions. Postoperative follow-up incorporates serial measurement of serum alpha-fetoprotein to detect early recurrence and assures normal neurological and urogenital development. Emerging techniques such as minimally invasive approaches and refined imaging protocols are enhancing surgical precision and reducing morbidity. Globally, standardisation of protocols—from prenatal surveillance to surgical and monitoring strategies—has improved survival rates and reduced long-term complications, affirming the importance of cohesive care pathways for optimal functional and oncological outcomes.
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Management of Sacrococcygeal Teratomas in Pediatric Patients publication trend
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Technical terms
Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT): A congenital tumour arising at the base of the spine containing tissues from all three germ layers.
Coccygectomy: Surgical removal of the coccyx to reduce recurrence by excising residual totipotent cells.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): A foetal serum protein used as a tumour marker to monitor treatment response and detect recurrence.
Fetal hydrops: A condition characterised by abnormal fluid accumulation in two or more foetal compartments, signalling high risk in teratoma cases.
References
- Immature Sacrococcygeal Teratoma: A Case Report and Extensive Review of the Literature. Diagnostics (2024).
- Diagnostic accuracy of serum alpha-fetoprotein levels in diagnosing recurrent sacrococcygeal teratoma: A systematic review. Journal of Pediatric Surgery (2020).
- Factors associated with poor outcome in fetuses prenatally diagnosed with sacrococcygeal teratoma. Prenatal Diagnosis (2021).
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