How large must a teratoma be to require surgery?

Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 25, 2024
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Ovarian teratomas belong to a type of ovarian germ cell tumor. Ovarian teratomas can be classified into mature teratomas, also known as dermoid cysts, which are a type of benign tumor. There are also immature teratomas, which are malignant tumors commonly found in younger patients, typically between the ages of 11 and 19. If an ovarian teratoma is found to be over three centimeters in diameter, further examinations such as a CA125 test and pelvic CT scan are needed. In the absence of other complications, elective surgical treatment can be planned. However, if the examination reveals high CA125 levels and the pelvic CT confirms the diagnosis, and the cyst is growing rapidly with high blood lipids, timely surgical treatment is necessary, followed by a rapid pathological examination during the surgery.

Other Voices

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Ovarian teratoma is what?

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 Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is a teratoma pregnancy?

Teratoma is not a pregnancy; it is a type of ovarian tumor. Most of the time, this tumor is benign. It commonly occurs in individuals aged between 20 and 40 years. The formation of teratomas is generally due to poor differentiation during the embryonic stage, resulting in the development of this type of tumor. Very occasionally, teratomas can become malignant, which requires high vigilance. Most cases of malignancy are seen in young females aged between 11 and 19. Malignant teratomas are usually solid, but they can also have cystic areas.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Will teratoma recur after resection?

Teratomas in ovarian cysts are a type that can recur after surgery. After surgery, teratomas require close monitoring, and if recurrence occurs, reoperation for removal is necessary. Therefore, regular gynecological ultrasound post-surgery is key to confirm whether the teratoma has recurred. It is recommended that patients undergo regular gynecological ultrasound examinations at their local hospital after surgery, and if a recurrence of the teratoma occurs, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Does ovarian teratoma affect pregnancy?

In gynecology, teratomas are a very common type of ovarian cyst. If a teratoma is discovered during the pre-pregnancy period, its size should be considered. If the teratoma is larger than five centimeters in diameter and is accompanied by abnormalities on a CT scan, it is recommended to undergo surgery before attempting to conceive. If the teratoma is very small, such as two to three centimeters in diameter, it does not affect future pregnancy. If a teratoma is discovered during early pregnancy, opinions vary. Some recommend surgical treatment after the first trimester, while others suggest a pregnancy observation plan. Teratomas during pregnancy are prone to complications such as ovarian cyst torsion, which can cause abdominal pain. Therefore, if you have a teratoma and successfully conceive, be mindful of any pain.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does a teratoma require immediate surgery?

Not all teratomas require immediate surgery. If a teratoma is found to be relatively small in size, many people can have it remain stable for a long time without significant changes, therefore periodic monitoring is possible. However, if a teratoma shows a rapid increase in size, or if it is already very large with the potential for torsion, or if there is a possibility of rupture or malignant transformation, or if the teratoma has endocrine activity, then immediate surgery may be necessary.