Fetal teratomas - A retrospective observational single-center study

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Fetal Medicine
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Fetal teratomas are congenital tumors with varied locations and potential complications.
• Prenatal diagnosis allows for early assessment and management planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the course and outcomes of pregnancies with prenatally diagnosed fetal teratomas.
• To compare complications and intervention needs based on tumor location.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of 79 cases (2002-2019).
• Analysis focused on ultrasound findings, complications, interventions, and outcomes.
• Comparison of outcomes stratified by tumor location.

Main Results:

• Sacrococcygeal (59.5%), neck (20.2%), and oropharyngeal (7.6%) were most common locations.
• Complications included polyhydramnios and cardiac compromise; pericardial teratomas had higher intervention needs.
• Preterm birth occurred in 72.7% (before 37 weeks) and 29.1% (before 32 weeks).
• Perinatal deaths were linked to tumor bleeding (sacrococcygeal) and respiratory failure (cervical/oropharyngeal).

Conclusions:

• Intervention is frequently necessary for fetal teratomas.
• Pericardiocentesis for pericardial teratomas can prevent intrauterine demise.
• Amniotic fluid drainage for polyhydramnios may reduce preterm birth.
• MRI complements ultrasound for planning delivery of neck/oropharyngeal teratomas.