Can a teratoma be detected by ultrasound?

Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
Updated on November 25, 2024
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Teratomas are a common type of solid tumor in the ovaries, and the vast majority of ovarian teratomas are benign. The most common method to examine teratomas in women is to perform an ultrasound. Generally, an abdominal ultrasound can be done 3-7 days after the menstrual cycle has ended to observe the ultrasonic echo of both ovaries. Normally, both ovaries are uniform in size and echo. If the ultrasound suggests the presence of a substantive mass on the ovary, which has a strong echo, or indicates the presence of fat or bone echoes, then this condition is highly suspected to be a teratoma. For ovarian teratomas, if the size is relatively small and there are no clinical symptoms, temporary observation is possible. However, if it is larger than five centimeters, laparoscopic removal is generally recommended.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can teratoma affect menstruation?

The majority of teratomas do not have endocrine functions and will not affect menstrual cycles. If there is a delay in menstruation, the first step is to check for pregnancy. If menstruation is delayed for two weeks, pregnancy should be ruled out, and interventions might be necessary, such as an ultrasound to examine the endometrium or a progesterone withdrawal test. Teratomas do not cause menstrual delays unless a very small number of them have endocrine issues. However, these would not suddenly change the menstrual cycle but would potentially cause long-term endocrine changes from the time the teratoma is discovered.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does ovarian teratoma affect menstruation?

Ovarian teratomas include mature teratomas, which are benign tumors. These benign ovarian teratomas do not affect menstruation. However, there are also malignant teratomas, which are immature teratomas. Immature teratomas can secrete hormones, and because they secrete different types of hormones, their impact on menstruation varies. If an ovarian teratoma is diagnosed, immediate surgical treatment is required, because if it is an immature teratoma, it is malignant. Prolonged presence can lead to metastasis. If a teratoma is detected early, early-stage malignant tumors can be cured through surgical treatment.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What to do about ovarian teratoma abdominal pain?

If a patient has an ovarian teratoma and also has abdominal pain, they should immediately visit a local hospital for a gynecological examination and a gynecological ultrasound. The main purpose is to confirm whether there is torsion of the ovarian teratoma. Once torsion of the ovarian teratoma occurs, it can cause ischemic necrosis of the ipsilateral fallopian tube and ovary, leading to severe consequences. Therefore, once an ovarian teratoma is detected, it is not advisable for the patient to continue observation treatment. Prompt surgery is key to avoiding pathological changes and complications.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Is the recurrence of ovarian teratoma serious?

If there is a recurrence after undergoing ovarian teratoma surgery, it is considered serious. In such cases, it should be considered that the ovarian teratoma might be malignant, and malignant teratomas can potentially metastasize. Therefore, it is recommended that women, after having ovarian teratoma surgery, should actively pursue further radiotherapy and chemotherapy based on the nature of the teratoma, to control the cancer cells. In daily life, it is advisable to eat a light diet, consume various fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoid cold, spicy, and irritating foods. Moderate exercise should be performed to enhance physical condition and maintain a cheerful mood, all of which can help alleviate the condition.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of teratoma recurrence?

If a teratoma recurs, in cases of benign teratomas, generally there are no symptoms. Symptoms only arise when the tumor grows large enough to compress the bladder and intestines, which might induce signs of bladder and rectal irritation. Additionally, a teratoma might undergo torsion due to changes in body position, causing sudden lower abdominal pain. If it is a malignant teratoma, there might not be noticeable symptoms early on. The recurrence of a teratoma can only be detected through regular monitoring with ultrasound and tumor markers; there are no better methods available.