A Rare Case report of Retroperitoneal Teratoma in a Young Infant

Primary retroperitoneal teratoma of infancy is rare condition, accounting for only 3.5%–4% of all germ cell tumors. These tumors can present as either asymptomatic masses or as abdominal lumps that cause symptoms by affecting neighbouring organs. The present report highlights a case involving a young infant with an abdominal mass that presented a significant diagnostic challenge. 

It detailed the case of a 3-month-old female infant who presented with abdominal distension since 1½ months of age. Physical examination revealed a palpable mass on the right side of her abdomen, crossing the midline. There was no antenatal and perinatal history.

Initial diagnostic efforts, including radiological imaging and a trucut biopsy, were inconclusive. Ultimately, a complete laparoscopic excision of the mass was performed, which revealed a grade 2/3 immature teratoma upon biopsy. Notably, serum levels of alphafetoprotein and betahuman chorionic gonadotropin were normal, and the patient did not receive chemotherapy. After 2½ years of follow-up, the infant is doing well without any complaints.

 The report emphasizes the significance of early detection and complete surgical removal of primary retroperitoneal teratoma with mature or partly immature histopathology, which lead to a favorable prognosis.

Source: Sharma RD, Achugatla S, Singh S, Thakur S, Redkar RG. Retroperitoneal Teratoma: A Rare Entity in a Young Infant. Indian Pediatrics Case Reports. Oct–Dec 2024;4(4):p 226-229. DOI: 10.4103/ipcares.ipcares_157_23