Nasopharyngeal teratomas.

Abstract

Teratomas are the most common congenital tumors, but neoplasms of the nasopharynx are rare in neonates and children. Four histologic types of nasopharyngeal teratomas occur-dermoids, teratoids, true teratomas, and epignathi-of which dermoids comprise the vast majority. A case is presented of a neonate born at term exhibiting signs of respiratory difficulty, which were found to be caused by a true teratoma of the nasopharynx. A review of several large case series of pediatric teratomas confirmed the rarity of occurrence at this site. An extensive review of case reports identified those meeting the criteria of true teratomas of the nasopharynx; the characteristics of these cases are delineated.