ovarian teratoma

ovarian teratoma An ovarian tumor that is usually benign and typically contains a diversity of tissues. An ovarian teratoma develops from a totipotential germ cell—a primary oocyte—that is retained within the ovary. Totipotential cells can give rise to all orders of cells that are necessary to form mature tissues and often recognizable structures, such as hair, bone, and sebaceous (oily) material, neural tissue, and teeth. Any of these tissues may be found in an ovarian teratoma. Such cysts may occur at any age, but the prime age of detection is in the childbearing years. Treatment involves surgical removal, which can be done via laparotomy (open surgery) or laparoscopy (with a scope). Also known as dermoid cyst of the ovary or simply dermoid. See also cyst, ovarian; parthenogenesis.