Management of fetal teratomas

Abstract

Fetal teratomas are the most common tumors diagnosed prenatally. The majority of these tumors are benign and cured by complete resection of the mass during the neonatal period. Prenatal diagnosis has improved the perinatal management of these lesions and especially for the teratomas that might benefit from fetal intervention. A comprehensive prenatal evaluation including conventional ultrasounds, Doppler, echocardiography and fetal MRI, is essential for an effective counseling and perinatal management. Antenatal counseling helps the parents to better understand the natural history, fetal intervention, and perinatal management of these tumors, which differ dramatically depending on their size and location. Fetal surgical debulking improves survival in cases of sacrococcygeal teratoma with cardiac decompensation. Additionally, the use of an EXIT procedure reduces the morbidity and mortality if a complicated delivery in cases of cervical and mediastinal teratomas. Here, we offer an overview of all fetal teratomas and their recommended management, with emphasis on in utero treatment options.

Keywords: Congenital teratoma; Fetal tumors; Perinatal management; Prenatal diagnosis.