Background: Teratomas are uncommon neoplasms made up of mixed dermal elements derived from the three germ cell layers, and characterized by the presence of any tissue type, often assuming bizarre morphology. Primary retroperitoneal teratomas account for 1%–11% of retroperitoneal neoplasms, and are most commonly found in neonates and young adults. Case: A case of large sacrococcygeal teratoma, in a woman operated on during the 1st year of life and again in early adulthood, is presented. Results: The patient's postoperative course was uneventful. In her case, histologic findings included epidermoid, respiratory, mucinous epithelial, and leiomuscular stromal components. Conclusions: the diagnosis of teratoma can be suggested by computed tomography (CT) findings demonstrating a complex mass with a well-circumscribed fluid volume, fat-fluid level, and calcifications. Transrectal ultrasound may be helpful in the diagnosis of the retroperitoneal location and the relationship with other pelvic structures. Complete surgical resection and careful histologic evaluation are mandatory, and have a prognostic value, because complete surgical resection of a benign teratoma has an excellent prognosis. (J GYNECOL SURG 30:158)
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