Malignant teratoma
Alternative Names
Dermoid cyst - malignant; Nonseminomatous germ cell tumor - teratoma; Immature teratomaSymptoms
Symptoms result from spread of the tumor into surrounding tissues and include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Limited exercise tolerance
- Fatigue
Exams and Tests
On physical examination, a physician may see signs of congestive heart failure and increased pressure in the chest cavity. Diagnosis is made using the following tests:
- History and physical examination
- CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis
- Elevated levels of b-HCG and AFP in the blood
- Mediastinoscopy and biopsy -- use of a special scope to look in the mediastinum (mediastinoscopy) and remove a piece of the tumor (biopsy)
- Anterior mediastinotomy -- open surgery to remove the tumor or part of it
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.