Cervical Teratoma

Also known as: primary thyroid teratoma, fetal giant neck mass.

What is cervical teratoma?

When a baby is born with a large mass or tumor on his or her neck, this is known as a cervical teratoma. These are often benign, or non-cancerous, but they can cause other complications. If they occur in adults, they are often cancerous.

What causes cervical teratoma?

Cervical teratomas are caused by germ cells, which are cells that are present in a part of the body where they are not supposed to be. However, the explanation for why germ cells occur in the necks of some people is not clear.

What are the symptoms of cervical teratoma?

If the cervical teratoma is small, it may not cause any symptoms beyond being visible. However, a large teratoma can cause problems breathing and swallowing and can even be life-threatening.

What are cervical teratoma care options? 

A cervical teratoma is typically removed with a surgical procedure. Other treatments may be required to assist with breathing or eating as the body heals after the procedure.


Reviewed by: Yamilet Tirado, MD

This page was last updated on: October 03, 2019 04:31 PM