OBJECTIVETo investigate the value of MR imaging in the diagnosis of benign sacrococcygeal teratomas of the infants.

METHODSMR imaging of benign sacrococcygeal teratomas in 6 cases proved by surgery and pathology was retrospectively reviewed. In all patients, a fast imaging sequence, fast spin echo sequence was employed, together with short time inversion recovery sequence and contrast enhancement scanning by intravenous injection of Gd-DTPA.

RESULTSThere were 6 benign sacrococcygeal teratomas, which were heterogeneous masses and arose from the distal sacrococcygeal region in the pelvis. The MR imaging appearances of the benign sacrococcygeal teratomas were characteristic, T1- and T2-weighted images demonstrated a large mass containing round, well-defined areas of varying signal intensity representing its cystic, solid, and sometimes fat, calcification within the lesions.

CONCLUSIONMR imaging provides definitive information of benign sacrococcygeal teratomas and clearly shows both extra-and intra-pelvic components, and even better anatomic details, which facilitates the surgical planning adequately.