Ruptured Ovarian Cystic Teratoma Secondary to Blunt Abdominal Trauma: A Very Unusual Case

Abstract

A benign cystic teratoma (dermoid cyst) is a common neoplasm of the ovary, representing approximately 15% of all ovarian neoplasms. These tumors appear grossly as a cyst containing hair and sebaceous material. Besides skin elements, these cysts may also contain bone, cartilage, and even well-formed teeth. Cystic teratomas are generally benign and do not recur in the majority of cases. Although there have been reports of traumatic ruptures of ovarian cysts in the literature, there have not been any reported cases of ruptured cystic teratomas secondary to blunt abdominal trauma. We report a case of traumatic rupture of this tumor secondary to a motor vehicle crash, with the patient presenting with acute peritonitis.