Formation of teratoma

Written by Yan Chun
Oncology
Updated on April 27, 2025
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Teratoma is a type of tumor disease originating from germ cells, clinically classified into benign and malignant categories. The specific cause of teratoma formation is currently unclear; it is considered to be due to abnormal mutations occurring during the development of germ cell tumors, thereby forming tumors. The formation of teratomas also involves some inducing factors, such as familial genetic history. Due to specific genetic mutations in the family, the incidence of familial teratomas increases. Additionally, some external infections are also related to the occurrence of teratomas, ultimately leading to their formation.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can women with ovarian teratomas have children?

Ovarian teratomas, if discovered after pregnancy, do not significantly impact the child; however, it's crucial to confirm that the ovarian teratoma is benign. If detected during pregnancy, close observation is possible, and sudden lower abdominal pain may indicate ovarian torsion, which requires timely surgical intervention. If there are no symptoms, surgery can wait until after the child is born. If an ovarian teratoma is discovered before pregnancy, it is advisable to undergo surgery before becoming pregnant because ovarian teratomas can sometimes be malignant, and torsion may occur during pregnancy, which could affect the child.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Is it easy to get pregnant with a teratoma?

First, what is a teratoma? Teratoma is a common ovarian tumor in gynecology, with a very high incidence rate. It is generally benign and the occurrence of teratomas is related to congenital genetic factors. Generally, if a teratoma is found, the first step is to check the size of the teratoma. If it is smaller than five centimeters, tumor series tests are normal, and there is no other discomfort, observation can be initiated. If the teratoma is relatively large, larger than five centimeters, surgical intervention is required. Teratomas themselves are not related to pregnancy, but because teratomas can lead to ovarian cyst torsion, after torsion occurs, one side of the adnexa may need to be removed, which could reduce fertility.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Does ovarian teratoma affect pregnancy?

In gynecology, teratomas are a very common type of ovarian cyst. If a teratoma is discovered during the pre-pregnancy period, its size should be considered. If the teratoma is larger than five centimeters in diameter and is accompanied by abnormalities on a CT scan, it is recommended to undergo surgery before attempting to conceive. If the teratoma is very small, such as two to three centimeters in diameter, it does not affect future pregnancy. If a teratoma is discovered during early pregnancy, opinions vary. Some recommend surgical treatment after the first trimester, while others suggest a pregnancy observation plan. Teratomas during pregnancy are prone to complications such as ovarian cyst torsion, which can cause abdominal pain. Therefore, if you have a teratoma and successfully conceive, be mindful of any pain.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should be paid attention to usually with teratoma?

For patients with teratoma, once the teratoma is detected, it is necessary to monitor it regularly. If the tumor is larger than three centimeters, it is best to undergo surgery as soon as possible. If surgery cannot be performed promptly due to particular reasons, then it is essential to have an ultrasound re-examination every three months. Additionally, patients should avoid vigorous exercise, external impacts, and significant changes in body position in daily life. Because teratomas are mixed masses with uneven textures, they are very prone to torsion. Therefore, significant changes in body position or vigorous exercises can easily cause the torsion of the pedicle, which may lead to the need for emergency surgery.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is surgery necessary for teratoma?

Ovarian teratoma belongs to a type of germ cell tumor. Ovarian teratomas can be classified into mature teratomas and immature teratomas. Mature teratoma, also known as dermoid cyst, is mostly a benign tumor. Within the cyst, components such as sebum, hair, teeth, and bone can be found. Additionally, mature teratomas have a malignant transformation risk of 2%-4% and are commonly seen in postmenopausal women. On the other hand, immature teratomas are malignant tumors, accounting for 1%-3% of ovarian teratomas and more commonly found in younger patients, with the average age ranging from 11 to 19 years old. Therefore, timely surgical treatment is necessary once an ovarian teratoma is detected.