Are ovarian teratomas congenital?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on October 29, 2024
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Ovarian teratomas are congenital, primarily deriving from primordial germ cells. Teratomas consist of tissues from multiple embryonic layers, mostly being immature types. Most ovarian teratomas are cystic. Depending on the degree of tissue differentiation, teratomas can be classified as benign or malignant. Benign teratomas, also known as mature teratomas, are more common in women aged 20-40 and are usually unilateral and either round or ovoid in shape. A portion of these teratomas are malignant, typically found in younger patients, roughly aged 11-19 years, and this condition has a poorer prognosis, requiring timely surgical treatment.

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Written by Hou Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Teratoma Benign and Malignant Differences

Teratoma refers to a common type of germ cell tumor, which can be classified into mature teratomas and immature teratomas. Mature teratomas are benign tumors, accounting for 10%-20% of ovarian tumors. They can occur at any age but are more common between the ages of 20 and 40. Most are unilateral, of moderate size, and usually have a single compartment filled with sebum and hair; sometimes teeth and bone can also be found. Immature teratomas, on the other hand, are malignant tumors, making up 1%-3% of ovarian teratomas. These are more frequent in younger patients, with an average age of 11 to 19 years. The ovaries are predominantly solid but may include cystic areas, primarily consisting of primitive neural tissue. The malignancy level of the ovary depends on the proportion of immature tissue, the degree of differentiation, and the content of neuroepithelial tissue.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Do ovarian teratomas hurt?

Ovarian teratomas, if without any complications, do not cause abdominal pain. Many people only discover the presence of ovarian teratomas during routine physical examinations. However, if a series of complications occur with ovarian teratomas, they can lead to abdominal pain. For example, the torsion of an ovarian teratoma, can cause the patient to feel sudden acute pain in the lower abdomen on one side. This pain is generally severe and unbearable and may also be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long after ovarian teratoma surgery can one become pregnant?

When suffering from ovarian teratomas, it is necessary to undergo surgical removal as soon as possible. For women with fertility needs, it is generally possible to plan for pregnancy three months after the surgery. Ovarian teratomas are mostly benign, and the body can usually recover quickly after the surgery, approximately 2-3 months later, at which point the ovaries generally resume normal ovulatory function. It is recommended that women undergo regular follow-ups at the hospital after the surgical removal, as there is a possibility of recurrence of teratomas. Moreover, it is advisable to schedule intercourse based on the ovulation status.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long after laparoscopic surgery for a teratoma can one have sexual intercourse?

Teratomas are predominantly benign tumors, mainly located in the ovaries, although in some patients with unique physical constitutions, ovarian tissues may also ectopically end up in the pelvic area, forming a pelvic teratoma. Whether it is an ovarian teratoma or a pelvic teratoma, the scope of the surgery is typically medium-sized. If the surgery is an open operation, it is classified as a second-level surgery, and if it is performed using laparoscopy, it should be classified as a third-level surgery. Both second and third-level surgeries fall under the medium-sized category, and patients usually recover quite quickly after the operation. Typically, we advise patients to refrain from sexual intercourse, pelvic baths, and to avoid heavy physical labor within a month post-operation.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does teratoma affect fetal development?

Teratomas are not normal fetuses; they are a type of tumor originating from germ cells in the ovaries. Pregnancy will not affect the normal development of the baby, and regular prenatal check-ups at the hospital are advisable. If it is possible to surgically remove the teratoma before trying to conceive, it is best to do so. Teratomas can be benign or malignant. Benign teratomas contain various components, including skin, hair, teeth, and bones. Malignant teratomas are poorly differentiated and more prone to malignant transformations and metastasis.