Splenic Teratoma: A Rare Case Report in Literature

Abstract

Introduction: Teratoma is a neoplasm consisting of tissue derived from more than one primitive germ cell layer with the most common site of occurrence in gonadal organs. Extragonadal pelvic teratomas are extremely rare. Case Report: We report a rare case of splenic teratoma of mature type. An 18-year-old male presented with vague abdominal pain and discomfort for the past 2 years. Imaging with computed tomography shows an enlarged spleen with a multiloculated cyst. Following this, an open splenectomy was performed. Histologically, it reveals multiple cysts lined with squamous epithelium, lobules of adipose tissue, and smooth muscle fibers. There is no evidence of immature elements or malignant features. Discussion: Splenic teratomas are extremely rare and usually asymptomatic until they cause massive splenomegaly. Imaging can only provide the nature of the lesion whether it is cystic or solid. Hence, other differential diagnoses were considered such as epidermoid cyst, echinococcal cyst, lymphangiomas, and pseudocyst. In the case of a splenic cyst with partly solid areas, teratomas are considered. A complete histopathological examination is required to provide the definite diagnosis and also rule out malignant transformation.