Intrapericardial Teratoma Presenting in Fetal Life: Intrauterine Diagnosis and Neonatal Management

Abstract

Intrapericardial teratoma is a rare and often fatal germ-cell tumor of neonates. It is usually histologically benign but may cause death in utero by hydrops fetalis or by pericardial tamponade in the early days of life. The etiology of these tumors is uncertain, but resection appears to be curative. However, these tumours present a challenge in terms of prenatal management. The prevention or adequate management of hydrops fetalis is essential for the gestation to proceed to term, at which point it can be managed successfully with surgical resection. We present a case of intrapericardial teratoma, diagnosed in utero on ultrasound screening and managed both prenatally by laser decompression in utero and surgically in the first days of life.