Learning objectives
To illustrate the most frequent types of ovarian teratoma,
describing the typical aspects by using various imaging techniques,
with elements of differential diagnosis.
Background
Ovarian teratoma is the most common form of ovarian germ cell tumours.The term "teratoma" actually includes a series of tumor subtypes made up of tissues originating from one or all three germ cell layers,
more or less differentiated.
Therefore,
it is possible to classify ovarian teratoma in three big categories:
1. Mature teratoma
2. Immature teratoma
3. Monodermal teratoma
Findings and procedure details
Mature teratoma is the most common benign tumor of the ovary.
It is typically found in young women and it may be bilateral in 25% of cases.
It contains mature elements from germ cell layers (ectoderm,
mesoderm,
endoderm).
The cystic form (or dermoid cyst) represents the most frequent form of mature teratoma: it is unilocular and delimited by a thick wall covered by squamous epithelium,
sometimes with intralesional calcification.
It may contain sebaceous material,
fat and elements deriving from the germinal layers.
An endocytic excrescence...
Conclusion
Knowledge of the typical aspects of ovarian teratoma in its variants is crucial for characterization,
differential diagnosis and,
finally,
to direct the patient to the most appropriate treatment.
References
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Ovarian teratomas: tumor types and imaging characteristics.
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Published Online:Jun 1 1989https://doi.org/10.1148/radiology.171.3.2717741
3. Friedman AC,
Pyatt RS,
Hartman DS et-al.
CT of benign cystic teratomas.
AJR Am J Roentgenol.
1982;138 (4): 659-65
4. Jung SI,
Kim YJ,
Lee MW et-al.
Struma ovarii: CT findings.
Abdom Imaging.
33 (6): 740-3.doi:10.1007/s00261-008-9362-1