Teratoma
Also known as: benign teratoma, malignant teratoma, germ cell tumor.
What is teratoma?
A teratoma is a fairly common congenital (develops before birth) type of solid tumor that contains normal looking tissues like hair, teeth and bone (and very rarely whole organs like, for example eyes).
Teratomas are typically found in the midline or gonads; most commonly in the sacrococcygeal area, the ovary, testicle, brain and other sites (like neck). They are usually benign (non-cancerous and don't spread), and can grow quite rapidly (sometimes they are malignant and can spread).
What causes teratoma?
The cause is unknown, however there are a number of inherited defects that seem to increase the risk for the development of teratomas.
What are the symptoms of teratoma?
Symptoms depend on the site and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include a swelling, mass or lump that can be felt or seen, constipation or incontinence, leg weakness, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing etc.
What are teratoma care options?
Treatments may include one or a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, bone marrow transplant and as necessary hormones.
Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP
This page was last updated on: April 07, 2022 11:13 AM
Inspiring Patient Stories
Sebastian's Fight
Sebastian was only 11 years old when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, hydrocephalus and a teratoma. His mother Martha says she was shocked to learn her otherwise healthy son began experiencing headaches. Read More.
Learn more about
Sacrococcygeal Teratoma
A sacrococcygeal teratoma is a tumor containing a number of different tissues (fat, bone, nerves etc.) that is present at birth in the tailbone of the newborn baby.
Learn more
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.
Learn more
Cardiac Tumor
If an abnormal tissue grows in the heart it is known as a primary cardiac tumor.
Learn more
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a common form of cancer treatment. It refers to exposing the body to beams of radiation that are used to kill cancer cells and prevent them from coming back.
Learn more
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a common form of cancer treatment. It refers to drugs that are often used to kill cancer cells and prevent them from coming back.
Learn more