IMMATURE TERATOMAS

Immature teratomas are derived from the three germ layers — ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm.

These are rare and constitute less than 1 percent of ovarian teratomas. It is the third common germ cell malignancies.

It is commonly (50%) seen in women between the ages of 10 and 20 years and rarely seen after menopause. Immature teratomas are almost never bilateral.

Pathology: Varying grades of undifferentiated tissue elements are present. Prognosis depends on the quantity of immature neural tissue elements. The prognosis of immature teratoma depends mainly on the tumor grade and the stage of the disease. Grade 3 tumor has poor prognosis. Serum AFP levels may be raised. Mature teratoma carries excellent prognosis.

HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINE: -

The medicines that can prove beneficial are:-

• Tuberculinum
• Baryta iodide
• Carbo Veg
• Kreosotum
• Carcinosin.