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FACTS:

• A teratoma is a congenital (present at birth) tumor formed in all three layers of tissue. It can contain bone, teeth or hair fragments.
  
• A sacral teratoma, located on the tail bone, is the most common form of teratoma. They are usually visible from outside the body.
  
• Although less common, teratomas can occur in the sex organs (testes and ovaries)
  
• Although most teratomas are benign, some are malignant and ALL have the potential to become malignant.
  
• Symptoms of teratomas include a tumor, swelling or mass that can be felt or seen, constipation, incontinence or leg weakness if sacral tumor.
  
• Teratomas can be diagnosed through biopsy, blood test, CAT scan or MRI, xray and/or ultrasound.

TREATMENTS:

• Surgery to remove the tumor is the most common treatment.
  
• Chemotherapy to interfere with the cell’s ability to grow or reproduce may be used with both benign and malignant teratomas.
  
• If the teratoma contains malignant cells, radiation therapy may be used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
  
• Supportive care to prevent and treat any side effects of treatment or complications and to keep the child comfortable during treatment.
  
• Once the teratoma has been treated or removed, follow-up care is needed.
  
• With proper care and follow the child can have a normal and active life.