Teratoma of the nervous system: A case series

Abstract

Teratoma is a common form of germ cell tumors composed of multiple tissues foreign to the site in which arise with a histological representation of all three germ cell layers. Intracranial teratomas are very rare. In this study, we report three cases of intracranial teratomas with an interesting clinical course, neuroradiology, and outcome. In addition, we review the literature and convey important messages to the neuroscience community regarding issues related to the management of these rare tumors. The present cases are interesting examples of intracranial teratoma in terms of location of the tumor and neuroimaging findings. Delay in surgical intervention may complicate the course of the disease with progressive enlargement of tumors and development of complication including hydrocephalus. Using endoscopic surgical techniques may emerge as the preferred intervention option as compared to other traditional methods. We recommend the establishment of a national and international registry for intracranial tumors.

Keywords: Brain tumor; Cerebral hemisphere; Fosa posterior; Germ cell tumor; Glándula pineal; Hemisferio cerebral; Pineal gland; Posterior fossa; Teratoma; Tumor cerebral; Tumor de células germinales.