Is ovarian teratoma life-threatening?

In most cases, ovarian teratomas are benign and will not directly endanger life, but if they become malignant or cause complications, they may pose a serious threat to health. Common hazards include malignant transformation of tumors, ovarian torsion, and compression of surrounding organs. Once symptoms appear, you need to seek medical attention in time and properly handle them through surgery or treatment.

1What is ovarian teratoma and why it can be life-threatening

Ovarian teratoma is a germ cell tumor derived from embryonic cells, which is mainly divided into mature and immature types. Most are mature and benign, but about 1%-2% may turn malignant, especially immature teratomas, which have a higher risk of malignant transformation. Malignant teratomas may metastasize to other parts of the body and endanger life. Larger ovarian teratomas may cause ovarian torsion, leading to interruption of ovarian blood supply, acute abdominal pain and other serious consequences, requiring emergency surgery.

2. Possible complications and hazards

① Malignant transformation of tumors: After malignant transformation, they may invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant organs.

② Ovarian torsion: The weight and imbalance of the tumor lead to interruption of blood supply to the ovary, causing tissue necrosis and severe pain.

③Compression symptoms: A large teratoma may compress the bladder or rectum, causing difficulty in urination, constipation, etc.

④ Infection or rupture: Tumor infection or rupture may lead to life-threatening diseases such as peritonitis.

3 How to diagnose and treat ovarian teratoma

Ovarian teratoma is usually diagnosed by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. If malignancy is suspected, surgical pathology testing is required for further confirmation. Surgery is the first choice for treatment:

① Tumor removal: For benign teratomas, attempts can be made to preserve ovarian function by performing tumor removal.

② Ovarian removal: If the tumor is large or becomes malignant, oophorectomy or even total hysterectomy may be performed.

③Chemotherapy: Immature or malignant teratomas usually require combined chemotherapy to prevent recurrence and spread.

Patients need regular check-ups and pay attention to recurrence.

4 Daily precautions and preventive measures

Women can detect tumors early by undergoing gynecological examinations and ultrasound examinations every year. Controlling weight, avoiding obesity, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent ovarian and other reproductive system diseases.

Ovarian teratoma itself is not terrible, but its potential complications or malignant changes remind us that we need to pay attention. Once diagnosed, please follow the doctor's advice and deal with it in time to avoid deterioration and affect life safety. Healthy living habits and regular physical examinations are the key to early detection.