Ovarian Teratoma: Also referred to as a dermoid cyst, this unusual tumor typically appears in the ovary and often consists of a variety of tissues such as hair, teeth, bones, and more. A dermoid cyst originates from a totipotent cell (a primary germ cell) that remains within the ovary. Due to its totipotency, this cell has the potential to develop into various types of cells needed to form mature tissues, often resulting in recognizable structures like hair, bone, oily material, neural tissue, and teeth.Dermoid cysts can be found at any age, but they are most commonly identified during the childbearing years, with an average detection age of 30. Approximately 15% of women with ovarian teratomas have them in both ovaries. These cysts can vary in size from as small as a pea (less than half an inch) to as large as 45 cm (around 17 inches) in diameter.Such cysts can cause the ovary to twist, known as torsion, which can threaten its blood supply. The risk of rupture, which might lead to the spillage of oily contents and cause complications like adhesions and pain, increases with the size of the dermoid cyst. Though the vast majority (around 98%) of these tumors are benign, a small percentage (about 2%) can become malignant.Surgical removal of the dermoid cyst is typically recommended. This can be performed via laparotomy (open surgery) or laparoscopy (using a scope). When the cyst causes the ovary to twist, it becomes an emergency situation requiring immediate surgical intervention.
