An Atypical Presentation of a Pediatric Mature Teratoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Immature teratoma is an uncommon type of malignant tumor that mostly consists of immature tissue originating from the neuroepithelium. Mature teratomas in pediatrics are relatively rare and difficult to diagnose because of various symptoms and the tendency to overlap with other illnesses. This study aimed to report a rare case of a mature teratoma in pediatric age. A Saudi female patient, aged 31 months, was brought to the emergency room (ER) in 2024 with a suprapubic mass. She did not complain of pain or urinary symptoms and had no substantial medical or family history, and the mass was discovered incidentally. A non-tender suprapubic mass was found during a physical examination. A large cystic mass containing fat and calcification was seen during imaging tests (pelvic CT and MRI), and this diagnosis was consistent with the presence of an ovarian dermoid cyst. The surgical intervention involved laparotomy with right oophorectomy, and the tumor was identified by pathological investigation as a mature teratoma, distinguished by a cystic structure packed with hair, gelatinous material, and bone components. Following the surgery, there were no issues, and a follow-up appointment was scheduled to monitor any complications. This case emphasizes the rarity and difficulties in diagnosing mature teratomas in pediatric patients, with positive and promising outcomes highlighting that a comprehensive diagnostic approach and a customized treatment plan are essential for a smooth recovery from ovarian lesions in pediatrics. Consequently, accurate diagnosis and quick surgical intervention are critical for optimal management, even in the absence of obvious symptoms.