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Malignant teratoma



Teratoma - MRI scan
Teratoma - MRI scan
Malignant teratoma
Malignant teratoma


Malignant teratoma

Definition:

Malignant teratoma is a type of cancer consisting of cysts that contain one or more of the three main types of cells present in embryos -- ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm cells.


Alternative Names:
Dermoid cyst - malignant; Nonseminomatous germ cell tumor - teratoma; Immature teratoma
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:


Malignant teratoma occurs most often in young men in their 20's - 30's. It is often located in the anterior mediastinum (in the chest). Most malignant teratomas have spread (metastasized) by the time of diagnosis and they can spread throughout the body.

A number of other cancers are often associated with these tumors including:

  • Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
  • Myelodysplasia (MDS)
  • Malignant histiocytosis
  • Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma
  • Small cell undifferentiated carcinoma



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