Congenital teratoma in a rare cervical location

Abstract

Objective – Teratomas with sacrococcygeal, mediastinal and gonadal locations are the most frequently occurring pediatric germ cell tumors. Cervicofacial and intracranial locations are rare. Approximately 20% of giant cervical teratoma causes airway compression. We report a congenital cervical teratoma with partial airway compression diagnosed post-natally in a preterm infant. Case report – A 27 year old mother delivered a male infant at 35 weeks gestation after her first uneventful pregnancy. The newborn had a notable anterior neck mass measuring 4x5 cm. The alpha fetoprotein level was elevated at 317.5 ng/ml and β-HCG was less than 1.2 mI U/ml. An MRI scan showed a 24x53x27 mm prelaryngeal and paratracheal solid-cystic mass compressing and shifting the larynx and trachea to the right. The tumor was approached via a wide collar incision. It did not communicate with the oesophagus, trachea or thyroid gland and did not infiltrate the surrounding tissues. It was completely excised. Pathological examination revealed an immature teratoma. The recovery was uneventful. Conclusion – Teratoma in infancy may present in an unusual cervical location. Not only giant tumors may compress the airway