Will teratoma endanger life?

Teratomas may be life-threatening, especially those that are malignant or in special locations, and require prompt medical attention.

A teratoma is a tumor that contains a variety of immature tissues and may be caused by abnormal differentiation during the embryonic period. It is common in the ovaries, testicles, or mediastinum, and may also appear in other parts of the body. Most teratomas are benign, but some may become malignant, and malignant teratomas can have more serious effects on health.

Benign teratomas usually grow slowly, but if they are too large, they may compress surrounding organs. For example, ovarian teratomas may cause pelvic discomfort and even affect fertility; mediastinal teratomas may compress the heart and lungs, causing dyspnea or palpitations; if they become malignant, they may spread to other organs, causing systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and sudden weight loss. The risk of rupture or infection that is not treated in time should not be ignored.

If you find a suspected lump or have any discomfort, it is recommended to go to the hospital for ultrasound or CT scans as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis. You should also pay attention to physical examinations in your daily life to avoid ignoring abnormal signals from your body and communicate with your doctor in a timely manner about risks and treatment plans.