How large must a teratoma be to require surgery?

Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 25, 2024
00:00
00:00

Ovarian teratomas belong to a type of ovarian germ cell tumor. Ovarian teratomas can be classified into mature teratomas, also known as dermoid cysts, which are a type of benign tumor. There are also immature teratomas, which are malignant tumors commonly found in younger patients, typically between the ages of 11 and 19. If an ovarian teratoma is found to be over three centimeters in diameter, further examinations such as a CA125 test and pelvic CT scan are needed. In the absence of other complications, elective surgical treatment can be planned. However, if the examination reveals high CA125 levels and the pelvic CT confirms the diagnosis, and the cyst is growing rapidly with high blood lipids, timely surgical treatment is necessary, followed by a rapid pathological examination during the surgery.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
52sec home-news-image

Does ovarian teratoma affect menstruation?

Ovarian teratomas include mature teratomas, which are benign tumors. These benign ovarian teratomas do not affect menstruation. However, there are also malignant teratomas, which are immature teratomas. Immature teratomas can secrete hormones, and because they secrete different types of hormones, their impact on menstruation varies. If an ovarian teratoma is diagnosed, immediate surgical treatment is required, because if it is an immature teratoma, it is malignant. Prolonged presence can lead to metastasis. If a teratoma is detected early, early-stage malignant tumors can be cured through surgical treatment.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
44sec home-news-image

How long after ovarian teratoma surgery can one become pregnant?

When suffering from ovarian teratomas, it is necessary to undergo surgical removal as soon as possible. For women with fertility needs, it is generally possible to plan for pregnancy three months after the surgery. Ovarian teratomas are mostly benign, and the body can usually recover quickly after the surgery, approximately 2-3 months later, at which point the ovaries generally resume normal ovulatory function. It is recommended that women undergo regular follow-ups at the hospital after the surgical removal, as there is a possibility of recurrence of teratomas. Moreover, it is advisable to schedule intercourse based on the ovulation status.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
46sec home-news-image

Can one have sexual intercourse with a teratoma?

Teratoma is a type of ovarian cyst located within the abdominal cavity. Generally, the presence of a teratoma does not affect the patient's ability to have a normal sexual life. However, it is advised not to engage in overly vigorous sexual activity, as intense sexual activity can cause torsion of the ovarian cyst in the abdominal cavity. Once torsion of the ovarian teratoma occurs, it can lead to torsion of both the fallopian tube and the ovary on the affected side. Following torsion, the twisted fallopian tube and ovary lack blood supply, which can further lead to ischemia and necrosis. In such cases, it becomes necessary to surgically remove the affected fallopian tube and ovary.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 6sec home-news-image

Can teratomas be treated without surgery?

Patients with teratomas are advised to undergo surgery as soon as possible. It is impossible for teratomas to be treated with medication or be absorbed naturally. Teratomas also have a tendency to become malignant, so once diagnosed, it is recommended to have surgery as soon as possible. After the surgery, it is essential to send the removed teratoma tissue for pathological examination to check for any issues. The majority of teratomas are generally non-problematic, but a very few may show malignant tendencies. Therefore, it is advised that patients with teratomas undergo surgery early, followed by postoperative anti-inflammatory symptomatic treatment. Otherwise, if the surgery is not performed, the presence of a teratoma can cause ovulatory disorders. Furthermore, if a teratoma grows too large, it can cause lower abdominal pain and discomfort. Thus, patients with teratomas can only be treated symptomatically through surgery.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
54sec home-news-image

Can you keep a pregnancy with a teratoma?

Pregnancy with a teratoma is generally considered safe, as the teratoma is a tumor located on the ovary and, if there is a pregnancy, the embryo develops within the uterus. Typically, the teratoma does not significantly affect the pregnancy, nor does the pregnancy greatly affect the teratoma, because they are not in the same organ. Therefore, it is usually acceptable to continue with the pregnancy in such cases. However, it is essential to undergo ultrasound examinations during pregnancy to monitor the development of the teratoma. If the teratoma increases in size, it is advisable to consider surgical removal after the first three months of pregnancy, as the baby is relatively larger and the surgery is generally safer at this stage.