Teratomas are tumors composed of tissues derived from more than one germ cell line. Pulmonary teratomas are rare and commonly involve the upper lobe of the left lung. Criteria for pulmonary origin are the exclusion of a gonadal or other extragonadal primary site and origin entirely within the lung.
Is a teratoma considered cancer?
Teratomas usually occur in the ovaries in women, the testicles in men, and the tailbone in children. They may also occur in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), chest, or abdomen. Teratomas may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).
Can teratomas spread?
Most malignant teratomas can spread throughout the body, and have spread by the time of diagnosis. Blood cancers are often associated with this tumor, including: Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
How do you detect teratomas?
Blood tests are used to test for elevated levels of the hormones BhCG and AFP. Ultrasound imaging can help identify the progress of the teratoma. To check if cancer has spread to other parts of the body, your doctor will request X-rays of your chest and abdomen. Blood tests are also used to check for tumor markers.
What is mediastinal teratoma?
A mediastinal teratoma is classified a tumor that derives from germ cells. The anterior mediastinum is the most frequent area of extragonadal germ cell tumors [1]. It is rare and usually benign. Most of the symptoms are as a result of compression of adjacent structures.
Can you survive teratoma?
The overall survival was 95% and morbidity or mortality rates were consistent over the 40-year period of the study. In a more recent series, all 26 patients diagnosed with benign teratomas survived. Seven of 20 patients with long-term follow-up developed neuropathic bladder or bowel disturbances.
Should teratomas be removed?
Most teratomas are benign but malignant trans- formation does occur in 1-3% of cases. Teratomas can cause adnexal torsion or they may rupture and provoke acute peritonitis (Jones, 1988). Teratomas should therefore be removed when diagnosed.
How fast does teratoma grow?
Growing teratomas have a rapid expansion rate, with a median linear growth of 0.5 to 0.7 cm/month and volume increase of 9.2 to 12.9 cm3/month.
