[Pelvic retroperitoneal teratoma. A case report]

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Teratomas are congenital tumors from pluripotent embryonic cells, commonly found in the ovary, testis, mediastinum, and retroperitoneum.
• Retroperitoneal teratomas are rare in adults but account for 3% of pediatric cases.
• Adnexal masses during pregnancy are common, with mature teratomas reported in 30-50% of pregnancies, often detected by ultrasound.

Observation:

• A case report of an 18-year-old female at 10.2 weeks gestation presenting with an asymptomatic adnexal mass.
• Transvaginal ultrasound revealed an irregular gestational sac with absent embryonic cardiac activity and a 12.96 x 8.99 cm echogenic adnexal mass.
• Exploratory laparotomy confirmed normal uterus and ovaries, with resection of a 15 cm posterior retroperitoneal multi-lobed tumor.

Findings:

• The surgical specimen measured 13 x 12 x 8 cm, exhibiting a brownish color, irregular wall, soft consistency, and a yellowish, greasy interior.
• Microscopic examination showed a tumor encapsulated by hyaline-fibrous tissue, lined by stratified squamous keratinized epithelium with keratin layers.
• Anatomopathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of a mature retroperitoneal teratoma.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of thorough evaluation of adnexal masses in pregnant patients, even when asymptomatic.
• Early detection and surgical management are crucial for favorable outcomes in cases of mature teratomas during pregnancy.
• The findings contribute to understanding the rare occurrence and presentation of retroperitoneal mature teratomas in young adults.