Malignant teratoma
Definition
Malignant teratoma is a type of cancer that involves cysts that contain one or more of the three main types of cells found in a developing baby (embryo). These cells are callled ectoderms, mesoderms, and endoderms.
Alternative Names
Dermoid cyst - malignant; Nonseminomatous germ cell tumor - teratoma; Immature teratomaCauses
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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