Peritoneal Nodules in a Pediatric Patient with Benign Teratoma. A Case Report and Review of Literature

Mature ovarian teratomas are common in children. These well differentiated tumors are typically confined to the ovary. In rare cases, they can rupture leading to granulomatous peritonitis that mimics carcinomatosis. Ovarian tumors with peritoneal/omental implants suggest malignant pathology with a different prognosis.

A 15-year-old girl presented with 5 months of abdominal pain, and weight loss. Computed tomography (CT) imaging of the abdomen revealed a large mass filling the abdomen. Slightly elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and carcinoma antigen 125 (CA125). On laparotomy an ovarian tumor with peritoneal and omental implants was identified. Left salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, and peritoneal washing were performed. Pathology revealed a benign cystic teratoma.

Although ovarian teratomas are typically benign, they might mimic carcinomatosis. In patients with unexpected finding of peritoneal implants, histologic diagnosis is recommended before proceeding with a full oncologic ovarian resection.