A Rare Case of Tailgut Cyst Turning into Mucinous Adenocarcinoma: Case Report

Deepak Kumar; Vivek Kumar; Tiyasa Santra

doi:10.64387/tjs.2025.272030

Authors

Deepak Kumar Department of General Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi
Vivek Kumar Department of General Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi
Tiyasa Santra Department of General Surgery, University College of Medical Sciences & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64387/tjs.2025.272030

Keywords:

Tailgut cyst, Malignant transformation, Mucinous adenocarcinoma of tailgut cyst

Abstract

A tailgut cyst is an embryological remnant of the posterior intestine and is usually benign in nature. Malignant transformation is very rarely seen. We report a case of a tailgut cyst transforming into a mucinous adenocarcinoma. An 18-year-old gentleman presented to our healthcare center with progressive pain and heaviness in the lower abdomen and lower back for 1 year. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography reveals a cystic mass in the presacral region. The patient underwent transabdominal excision of the cyst in toto, and histopathological evaluation revealed mucinous adenocarcinoma. The patient underwent adjuvant chemo-radiotherapy, and after one year, contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed no residual or recurrence. Tailgut cysts carry the risk of fecal incontinence, fecal fistula, neurogenic bladder, and malignant transformation. Hence, complete excision followed by adjuvant treatment is advised. Excision can be done by transabdominal, posterior (Presacral/ Pre-coccygeal), or combined approach.

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