Congenital cervical teratomas: clinical approach

Abstract

Congenital cervical teratomas are rare, representing 3% of teratomas in childhood. Although mostly benign, they are associated with a high mortality rate due to respiratory distress and require immediate surgical excision. If not promptly managed with surgical resection, the mortality rate of cervical teratomas, is very high and reaches to 80–100%. In recent years, congenital cervical teratomas are frequently diagnosed on the antenatal sonogram and delivered in elective conditions. The first step in postnatal period is usually immediate endotracheal intubation due to respiratory distress. The diagnosis is usually suggested on the physical examination. The imaging investigation is essential for the proper diagnosis and preoperative planning. The most suitable treatment in cervical teratomas is surgical totally excision of the mass. In this paper we discussed congenital cervical teratomas with two cases.

Keywords

• cervical teratoma
• congenital
• surgery.