How is an ovarian teratoma treated?

Mature ovarian teratomas (dermoid cysts) are generally removed by laparoscopic surgery, if the cyst is small. This involves a small incision in the abdomen to insert a scope and a small cutting tool. A small risk of laparoscopic removal is that the cyst can become punctured and leak waxy material.

Do ovarian teratomas cause pain?

A main symptom of ovarian teratoma is intense abdominal or pelvic pain. This occurs when the growing mass places excess pressure on the ovary. In some instances, ovarian teratomas may be accompanied by NMDA encephalitis — a rare condition that can lead to severe headaches, confusion and psychosis.

How big can a teratoma get?

At initial manifestation, immature teratomas are typically larger (14–25 cm) than mature cystic teratomas (average, 7 cm) (,12),(,38). They may be solid or have a prominent solid component with cystic elements (,39).

What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian teratomas?

Types of teratomas. Teratomas are generally described as either mature or immature.

Is a teratoma a cyst or a tumor?

Ovarian teratoma is a benign or malignant tumor belonging to a group of germ cell tumors. It develops from germ cells and can be composed of different cell types from all the germ layers. It is also referred to as dermoid cyst, although this name only is used for benign neoplasm.

How to pronounce teratoma?

Sacrococcygeal (tailbone) teratoma. But even benign ones may need to be removed because of their size,and the possibility of further growth.

Can a dermoid cyst in the ovary ever turn into cancer?

Usually, dermoid cysts are found by accident when a woman’s pelvis is being imaged for something unrelated. However, these teratomas can also cause abdominal or pelvic pain. Dermoid Ovarian Cysts Can Turn into Cancer. The transformation is not overnight. These benign tumors actually grow about one to two millimeters per year.