Cause and symptoms

There is not a known cause of teratoma. Research shows that it is the failure of stem cells to migrate to their niche which initiates the formation of the tumour in a region where normally the tissue is not found.

Generalised symptoms common amongst varying forms of teratoma may include;

Ø  Tenderness

Ø  Fatigue

Ø  Pain

Ø  Lump in region of tumour formation

Ø  Shortness of breath

Ø  Swelling in region of tumour formation

Ø  Cough

Additional symptoms particular to sacrococcygeal teratoma;

Ø  Mother exhibits polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid in the womb) during pregnancy

Ø  Bladder dysfunction

Ø  Asymmetry of the gluteal region in neonates

Additional symptoms particular to ovarian teratoma;

Ø  Abdominal pain

Ø  Back pain

Ø  Abdominal swelling

Ø  Uterine bleeding

Ø  Bladder symptoms

Ø  Gastrointestinal disturbances

Additional symptoms particular to testicular teratoma;

Ø  Painless swelling of testicle(s)

Ø  Enlarged testes

Additional symptoms particular to mediastinal teratoma;

Ø  Retrosternal pain

Some of these symptoms may be vague and difficult to identify.
Keep in mind that these symptoms are common between many other illnesses.