Congenital Cervical Teratoma: A Case Report

Abstract

Cervical teratomas represent approximately 3% of all congenital teratomas, and occur in approximately 1 in 20,000 to 1 in 40,000 live births. 1 In the head and neck region, they are most commonly found in the cervical area, followed by the nasopharynx. Teratomas are derived from multipotent primitive germ cells that have the ability to differentiate into a variety of tissues. In addition, teratomas have a heterogeneous histologic appearance that may include cystic or solid areas with organoid patterns, as well as mature or immature components. 2 Tumors detected before birth are usually large and may be associated with polyhydramnios, hydrops, and premature delivery, resulting in a mortality that exceeds 50%. Severe respiratory distress caused by airway displacement and compression is the most serious postnatal complication; prenatal diagnosis is crucial, allowing early recognition of masses that obstruct the airways. 3 The management of these lesions comprises a team approach, careful diagnostic evaluation, surgical excision, histologic examination, and appropriate follow-up. The behavior of congenital teratomas is poorly understood, because few cases have been reported and uncertainty exists as to the prognostic significance of pathologic features, such as the grade or presence of germ cell tumor components.