Giant oral teratoma presenting unique airway challenges in a neonate

Congenital teratomas of the oropharyngeal cavity are rare and are associated with a high neonatal mortality rate due to severe airway obstruction. The management of such tumours has improved significantly over the past few years with better antenatal investigation and postnatal care of such high-risk cases.In this report, we describe a term neonate who presented after birth with a large oral mass, cleft palate and respiratory distress. The baby was successfully operated on day 4 of life with complete resection of the tumour. Histopathological examination of the specimen revealed an immature teratoma. Airway was secured with orotracheal intubation, thus avoiding tracheostomy. Long-term follow-up and rehabilitation are required for optimal outcomes in such cases. This case highlights the importance of meticulous airway planning, early surgical intervention and multidisciplinary care in neonates with giant oral teratomas.