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Definition

Malignant teratoma is a type of cancer made of cysts that contain one or more of the three main types of cells found in a developing baby (embryo). These cells are callled ectoderms, mesoderms, and endoderms.

Alternative Names

Dermoid cyst - malignant; Nonseminomatous germ cell tumor - teratoma; Immature teratoma

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Malignant teratoma occurs most often in young men in their 20s - 30s. It is often located in the chest area. Most malignant teratomas can spread throughout the body, and have spread by the time of diagnosis.

A number of other cancers are often associated with these tumors, including:

  • Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
  • Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma
  • Malignant histiocytosis
  • Myelodysplasia (MDS)
  • Small cell undifferentiated carcinoma
Symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • Chest pain
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Limited ability to tolerate exercise
  • Shortness of breath
Signs and tests

The health care provider will perform a physical exam, which may reveal signs of congestive heart failure and increased pressure in the chest area.

The following tests help diagnose the tumor:

Treatment

Chemotherapy is used to treat the tumor. A combination of medicines (usually cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin) is commonly used.

After chemotherapy is complete, CT scans are taken again to see if any mass remains. Surgery may be recommended if there is a possibility that the cancer will grow back in that area.

Support Groups

There are many support groups available for people with cancer. Contact the American Cancer Society -- www.cancer.org

Expectations (prognosis)

The outlook depends on the tumor size and location and the age of the patient.

Complications

The cancer can spread throughout the body and there may be complications of surgery or related to chemotherapy.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of malignant teratoma.

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14y ago

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What does a differentiated teratoma with a maliginant embroyonal rhabdomyosarcoma?

A differentiated teratoma is a type of tumor that contains tissues from different germ cell layers, whereas a malignant embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of soft tissue sarcoma arising from primitive muscle cells. The combination of these two types of tumors in the same location would be considered a rare and aggressive form of cancer, requiring prompt treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.


I had a 17 cm teratoma tumor growing inside my ovary and had to have it removed. Well inside the tumor they found hair teeth and fat cells. Is that considered a miscarriage Did I have a miscarriage?

No, having a teratoma tumor with hair, teeth, and fat cells inside it is not considered a miscarriage. A teratoma is a type of tumor that can contain different types of tissue and organ components, which are not related to a pregnancy or miscarriage.


Why is there cartilage in your kidney?

Cartilage does not naturally occur in the kidney. If cartilage is found in the kidney, it may be a sign of a rare condition such as a teratoma or other abnormal growth that needs further evaluation by a healthcare professional.


What is hurricane tumor?

The hurricane tumour is a malignancy that kills in a matter of weeks. It is usually a trophoblastic testicular teratoma.


What is the biggest tumor recorded?

The biggest tumor ever recorded was a cystic teratoma weighing 302 pounds, removed from a patient in 1905. Teratomas are tumors that can contain different types of tissues, such as hair, teeth, or even organs.

Related Questions

What does a differentiated teratoma with a maliginant embroyonal rhabdomyosarcoma?

A differentiated teratoma is a type of tumor that contains tissues from different germ cell layers, whereas a malignant embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of soft tissue sarcoma arising from primitive muscle cells. The combination of these two types of tumors in the same location would be considered a rare and aggressive form of cancer, requiring prompt treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.


What is a tumor resembling a 'monster'?

teratoma


Is Sacrococcygeal teratoma hereditary or environmental?

hereditary


Where can a teratoma be found?

Teratoma is a tumor that can be found in a developing baby, it is usually benign in newborns and do not spread. They are normally found in organs including the brain, liver,and lung.


What is a teratoma?

A tumor (cancer) with multiple types of tissue.


What is a presacral teratoma?

A presacral teratoma is a type of tumor that arises from germ cells located in the presacral area, which is situated near the base of the spine, just above the sacrum. These tumors can be congenital, meaning they are present at birth, and are most commonly diagnosed in infants and young children. Presacral teratomas can contain various types of tissues, including hair, muscle, and bone, and may be benign or malignant. Treatment typically involves surgical removal, depending on the tumor's size, location, and characteristics.


I had a 17 cm teratoma tumor growing inside my ovary and had to have it removed. Well inside the tumor they found hair teeth and fat cells. Is that considered a miscarriage Did I have a miscarriage?

No, having a teratoma tumor with hair, teeth, and fat cells inside it is not considered a miscarriage. A teratoma is a type of tumor that can contain different types of tissue and organ components, which are not related to a pregnancy or miscarriage.


Can an absorbed twin be a teratoma.?

Yes, and absorbed twin can be a teratoma. I know this because when I was 15 I had a teratoma. The doctor explained to me that I had absorbed my twin while my mother was pregnant with me. If you think you have a teratoma PLEASE see a doctor immediately! My teratome was not noticeable and then i started to see my stomach grow as if I were pregnant. By the time I saw a doctor mine was the size of a basketball. If i had waited maybe a month later it would've grown and taken over my vital organs and my life.


Can a teratoma reoccur?

Definately if it is not fully removed from connecting organs


What is a malformed animal or human in fetal stage?

try 'fetiform teratoma' for starters ...


What is another name for a dermoid cyst?

I suppose you could call a cyst a vesicle or sac of sorts


Describe the prenatal surgery procedure for treating sacrococcygeal teratoma?

Destroying blood vessels leading to a large SCT.