Management of nasopharyngeal teratomas associated with cleft palate

Nasopharyngeal teratomas are rare tumours, responsible for a high birth mortality rate from acute respiratory distress. Palatine localization can lead to an embryopathogenic mechanical obstacle responsible for a cleft palate. The aim of this study was to update current knowledge concerning the management of this rare pathological association. We conducted a multicentre, retrospective study by case analysis. The inclusion criteria were patients of any age under care for a nasopharyngeal teratoma associated with a velopalatine cleft. The diagnosis of the teratoma was confirmed by histological analysis. Seven cases were included in the study: three cases from the University Hospital of Lille, one from the University Hospital of Caen, one from of the University Hospital of Toulouse, and two from of the University Hospital of Amiens. Approximately 30% of patients experienced acute respiratory distress at birth, necessitating oro- or nasotracheal intubation. The surgical excision was performed in the first 5 months of life for all patients and in a single operative time for 70%. There was no recurrence. Therapeutic management of nasopharyngeal teratomas associated with cleft palate at birth is multidisciplinary and is based on surgical excision. In the absence of other associated pathologies, the prognosis is favourable.