 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Malignant teratoma
Definition:
Malignant teratoma is a type of cancer consisting of cysts that contain one or more of the three main types of cells present in embryos -- ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm cells. Alternative Names:
Dermoid cyst - malignant; Nonseminomatous germ cell tumor - teratoma; Immature teratoma Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician 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 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. | |
| 
.gif)
