What are the diagnostic methods for teratoma

Teratomas are different from ordinary tumors. They are congenital. They are caused by abnormal pluripotent cell division when the patient is born. Teratomas can grow with the patient's growth. They are generally harmless and will not cause any symptoms to the patient. Sometimes they can accompany the patient throughout his life. The following is an introduction to the diagnosis methods of teratomas.

Diagnosis of teratoma:

A clinical diagnosis can be made based on the clinical manifestations of teratomas in different locations and combined with the following examinations.

1. X-ray of teratoma:

Abnormal calcification can be seen in the tumor, such as teeth or irregular bone images, which are unique to teratomas. Chest and bone X-rays can determine whether there is distant metastasis.

2. Intravenous pyelography of teratoma:

Extrarenal tumors are shown, and the kidneys and ureters may be compressed, displaced, or deformed.

3. Ultrasound or CT examination of teratoma:

Determine whether the tumor is cystic, solid, or alternating between cystic and solid, its relationship to the surrounding tissues, and clarify the exact location and size of the tumor.

4. MRI examination of teratoma:

It can provide a good contrast between normal and abnormal tissues, accurately show the spread within the long bone marrow, easily detect skipping metastases within the bone marrow, and determine the relationship between the tumor and the joints, nerves, and blood vessels, which is of great significance in determining the patient's treatment and prognosis.

5. Determination of alpha-fetoprotein in teratoma:

Malignant teratomas or benign teratomas that have become malignant can both cause an increase in alpha-fetoprotein. Its value can be used as a criterion for judging whether a tumor has become malignant. Recheck serum alpha-fetoprotein on the 3rd to 4th day and 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. If it exceeds 250μg/ml, it can be considered that malignant tissue remains.

6. Rectal examination of teratoma:

It is a very important examination, which helps to detect presacral tumors and feel the degree of rectal compression, displacement, and even stenosis.