Authors : Akor Alexander Agada, Ameh Abdul
DOI : 10.18231/j.ijirm.2020.014
Volume : 5
Issue : 1
Year : 2020
Page No : 65-67
Mature teratoma is a rare, nonmalignant tumor of the mediastinum. We report, a rare case of a benign
mature teratoma of the anterior mediastinum in a young Nigerian adult. She presented with symptoms
of an expanding mass in the mediastinum this included centrally located dull chest pain, dry cough, and
weight loss of 4 months duration. The review of the other system and physical examination findings was
unremarkable. She had a contrast-enhanced computerized tomogram scan of the chest, which revealed a
well circumscribe lobulated, soft tissue mass with fatty foci and calcifications. She had a median sternotomy
with excision of the tumor. The histopathological examination of the sections showed structures lined
by structures derived from ectodermal, mesodermal, and endodermal germ layers. Ectoderm components
included skin sebaceous glands, hair, follicles, choroid coats, and brain tissue. Smooth muscle bundles
hyaline cartilage, adipose tissue, and bone were mesodermal derivatives. Endodermal derived components
included respiratory epithelium, intestinal mucosa, and seromucous glands. No atypical structure or
proliferation was seen. The diagnosis of benign mature teratoma of the mediastinum was confirmed. A
high index of suspicion, proper evaluation of patients is key to quick diagnosis and prompt management in
such cases.
Keywords: Benign, Teratoma, Mediatstinum.