Ovarian teratoma is what?

Written by Liu Jian Wei

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Updated on February 10, 2025

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Ovarian teratoma, which is one of several types of ovarian cysts, is mostly benign. However, in clinical practice, there is a possibility for some ovarian teratomas to become malignant. Therefore, it is recommended that if ovarian teratoma is suspected, immediate examinations should be conducted at local hospitals to assess the condition. If necessary, it is advised that patients with ovarian teratoma undergo surgical removal of the tumor in the hospital.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei

Obstetrics and Gynecology

34sec

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Can teratomas recur?

Teratomas can recur clinically, but the recurrence rate is relatively low. There are cases of ovarian teratoma recurrence after teratoma excision surgery. For recurrent teratomas after surgery, it is still recommended to undergo surgical removal again. With an increase in the number of surgeries, the probability of teratoma recurrence gradually decreases. It is recommended that patients who have undergone teratoma surgery undergo regular follow-up examinations.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan

Obstetrics and Gynecology

52sec

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Does a teratoma require surgery?

Ovarian teratomas are a type of germ cell tumor, requiring surgical treatment whether the teratoma is benign or malignant. Teratomas can be divided into mature teratomas and immature teratomas. Mature teratomas, also known as dermoid cysts, are considered benign tumors. Immature teratomas are malignant tumors, accounting for 1%-3% of ovarian teratomas. Mature teratomas are cystic with a single chamber filled with sebum and hair, and sometimes teeth and bone material can be found inside. Therefore, once a teratoma is identified, the choice of surgical method depends on the size of the tumor, and some biochemical tests are needed to determine the nature of the cystic tumor.

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Written by Qu Chun Yao

Obstetrics and Gynecology

56sec

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Is surgery necessary for ovarian teratoma?

If a color Doppler ultrasound confirms the presence of an ovarian teratoma, surgical treatment is required, as ovarian teratomas can be benign or malignant. Once diagnosed via color Doppler ultrasound, abdominal CT, MRI, or other radiological methods, surgery is necessary. Based on the surgical pathology results, if the teratoma is benign, cystectomy can be performed. If the pathology indicates malignancy, a more extensive surgical procedure and postoperative chemotherapy may be required. During this period, it is important to avoid ovarian cyst torsion and rupture to prevent the necessity of emergency surgery for acute abdomen. Ovarian teratomas cannot disappear naturally, so prompt surgical treatment is essential once diagnosed.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua

Obstetrics and Gynecology

41sec

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Do teratomas require a special diet?

The physical examination revealed a teratoma issue, which is generally related to congenital factors and has no relation to our regular diet. However, once a teratoma is found, it is essential to avoid eating cold and raw foods, as cold stimuli can also cause smooth muscle spasms, leading to discomfort in the abdomen. Regarding teratomas, the main consideration is the specific size of the tumor and the series conditions of the tumor. Some teratomas may undergo torsion, and others may become overly large or malignant, necessitating timely surgical intervention.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei

Obstetrics and Gynecology

46sec

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Can one have sexual intercourse with a teratoma?

Teratoma is a type of ovarian cyst located within the abdominal cavity. Generally, the presence of a teratoma does not affect the patient's ability to have a normal sexual life. However, it is advised not to engage in overly vigorous sexual activity, as intense sexual activity can cause torsion of the ovarian cyst in the abdominal cavity. Once torsion of the ovarian teratoma occurs, it can lead to torsion of both the fallopian tube and the ovary on the affected side. Following torsion, the twisted fallopian tube and ovary lack blood supply, which can further lead to ischemia and necrosis. In such cases, it becomes necessary to surgically remove the affected fallopian tube and ovary.