This accounts for about 25% of ovarian neoplasms. It occurs most frequently during reproductive life and is often an incidental finding. About 20% occur bilaterally.
Benign cystic teratomas are derived from two or more of the three germ layers - ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm. Most frequently, the cysts are lined by skin with sweat and sebaceous glands, and contain greasy, yellow sebaceous material mixed with hairs. Less commonly, cartilage, bone, thyroid tissue and other structures may be found.
Occasionally, thyroid elements may comprise more than 80% of the tumour; this lesion is called a struma ovarii and may be associated with hyperthyroidism.
Ovarian cystectomy may be performed in a younger woman if future childbearing is desired. The other ovary must also be explored and any cysts resected.
Similar tumours may also occur in retroperitoneal tissues, mediastinum, and even the pineal body.
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