Facial Teratoma in the Newborn: A Preventable Disease?

This case study specifies the anatomical features of facial teratoma and considers the interests of foeto-pathology review. A very rare germinal tumor in newborns is called a facial teratoma. Prenatal diagnosis is frequently made using MRIs and ultrasounds. The size and location of the lesion (in the digestive, respiratory, and ocular tracts) have a major impact on the prognosis of this tumor. A multidisciplinary examination is needed to ensure the newborn’s survival. Pre-operative conditioning is needed to avoid complications and carcinogenic risks.

We report a male baby, prematurely born at 28 weeks of amenorrhea (WA) dead at hour 23. Physical examination reveals a frontal mass on the left side of the face plus facial dysmorphia. Dissection shows hyperplasia of the lungs, hypertrophied liver and splenomegaly. The diagnosis of congenital teratoma of the face is based on histological investigation, which shows neural tissue connected to cartilage and hair areas.

Congenital teratoma of the face must be diagnosed in the womb in order for obstetricians, neonatologists, surgeons, and anesthesiologists to provide multidisciplinary care. The diagnosis of these rare cases of teratomas is possible in antenatal by ultrasound. The prognosis depends essentially on the histological nature, the site and the size of the tumor. Generally favorable after surgical treatment and multidisciplinary care; but can be severe with neonatal death in other cases.