Congenital cervical teratoma – an amalgamation of embryology with clinical findings

Teratoma means “A malformed body part of a monster” in Greek. A cervical teratoma is a very rare congenital tumor in the neck. These tumors tend to be large, disfiguring masses – partly solid and partly fluid. They make it impossible for a newborn to breathe upon birth. Knowledge of basic embryology of the brachial apparatus is necessary to understand neck malformations and congenital abnormalities. Here, a recent observation of this exceptional case is described. A pregnant woman, gravida 2, presented with pain abdomen in the 37th week of gestation. A male, living baby was delivered by caesarean section. A well-defined mass was present in the anterior neck region. A diagnosis of giant congenital cervical teratoma with airway compromise was made. The baby was intubated but could not survive. The objective of this study is the significance of a thorough knowledge of anatomy and embryology to prevent any late diagnosis or misdiagnosis. This report aims to create awareness about embryological development of a fetus to enhance the clinical recognition of this rare disorder, to highlight their occurrence in our locale, and to reiterate the associated management challenges in resource-limited settings. The present case highlights the importance of regular antenatal checkups, with timely ultrasounds, so that such congenital defects can be diagnosed prenatally and their management can be planned accordingly.