A case report of a rare benign mature teratoma of the mediastinum in a young adult

Abstract

Mature teratoma is a rare, nonmalignant tumor of the mediastinum. We report, a rare case of a benign mature teratoma of the anterior mediastinum in a young Nigerian adult. She presented with symptoms of an expanding mass in the mediastinum this included centrally located dull chest pain, dry cough, and weight loss of 4 months duration. The review of the other system and physical examination findings was unremarkable. She had a contrast-enhanced computerized tomogram scan of the chest, which revealed a well circumscribe lobulated, soft tissue mass with fatty foci and calcifications. She had a median sternotomy with excision of the tumor. The histopathological examination of the sections showed structures lined by structures derived from ectodermal, mesodermal, and endodermal germ layers. Ectoderm components included skin sebaceous glands, hair, follicles, choroid coats, and brain tissue. Smooth muscle bundles hyaline cartilage, adipose tissue, and bone were mesodermal derivatives. Endodermal derived components included respiratory epithelium, intestinal mucosa, and seromucous glands. No atypical structure or proliferation was seen. The diagnosis of benign mature teratoma of the mediastinum was confirmed. A high index of suspicion, proper evaluation of patients is key to quick diagnosis and prompt management in such cases. Keywords: Benign, Teratoma, Mediatstinum.