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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
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