Diagnosis, management, and follow-up of congenital head and neck teratomas

Abstract

Objective: To describe our clinical experience with congenital teratomas of the head and neck. Study Design: A retrospective review of the six patients as well as a review of the literature in the setting of academic referral centers. Methods: In six infants with teratomas, four in the cervical region and two arising from the nasopharynx, surgical excision of all tumors was performed. Outcome measures were clinical and radiographic follow-up and the use of α-fetoprotein (AFP) for postoperative monitoring. Results: There was no recurrence of teratomas. Conclusions: Surgical excision is the treatment for congenital teratomas. Postoperative monitoring for recurrences should include AFP levels in difficult cases.