Prenatal diagnosis of the Currarino triad by means of obstetrical ultrasonography is described. Three related cases are presented. A literature review regarding the therapeutic, ultrasound-guided approach are discussed. The Currarino triad is a genetically transmitted syndrome consisting of an anorectal malformation, a sacral boney defect and a presacral mass. Prenatal diagnosis aids the early recognition and surgical management of persistent spinal-rectal fistulas, thus potentially avoiding life-threatening bacterial meningitis. Copyright 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.