Teratomas of the head and neck region

Background: Teratomas are exceptionally rare malformations in the head and neck region. They are mostly benign but as a direct result of their rarity, most clinician's experience of these tumours is very limited, and consequently most of the associated literature consists of single case reports. In this paper, however, an the cases managed by a major Craniofacial Unit (the Australian Craniofacial Unit) were reviewed to attempt to identify common problems encountered in their management. Material and methods: All cases managed by the Australian Craniofacial Unit over the last 25 years were reviewed. In total a series of nine cases was identified, but two were seen and operated on in overseas centres and the data in these cases were incomplete, and have been excluded from the study. Case note, radiology and pathology review was undertaken to collect data. Results: In total a series of seven cases was identified as suitable for inclusion in this study. Six of these have had a minimum of 9 years follow-up, three having completed growth. Conclusion: The initial and subsequent management demonstrates that these tumours when benign can be successfully removed, but depending on the affected site may require continued multidisciplinary management until growth has finished. (C) 2003 European Association for Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery.