Are there other health problems that are more common among babies with a cervical teratoma?
A cervical teratoma may involve the thyroid and parathyroid glands. Therefore, these infants are at risk for hypoparathyroidism, and hypothyroidism. A pediatric endocrinologist (a specialist in glands and hormones) is often consulted to assess blood tests and provide supplementation as needed to help the baby grow. In general, a cervical teratoma is a benign tumor, although there is a small possibility of malignancy. If there is complete surgical excision, chemotherapy is not indicated. However, in rare cases of recurrence in immature or malignant tumors, chemotherapy is very effective. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by immature cells of the fetus and is elevated in patients with cervical teratomas. These levels should fall after tumor removal. Subsequent AFP levels are used as a screening tool for recurrence. Serial physical examination and imaging of the neck area is recommended until 3 years of age. Some babies will need a temporary tracheostomy, an airway created in
