A case of neonatal intrapericardial teratoma. Clinical and pathological findings

Abstract

Aim: It is of general agreement that complete surgical removal after birth of intrapericardial fetal teratomas is needed, because of the risk of severe cardiovascular and respiratory distress, related to the mass size, location and secondary pericardial effusion. Histological examination generally shows mature aspect of cells and tissues.

Methods: We present a case of grade II immature pericardial teratoma, diagnosed in utero and completely removed after birth.

Results: Even surgical removal was complete, histological aspects raised the need of long follow-up with serial alpha-fetoprotein determinations.

Conclusion: A neonatal grade II immature pericardial teratoma was completely removed after birth. The follow-up of the patient, until 10 months of life, was good with no recurrence of the disease.