Mediastinal mature cystic teratoma

Mature cystic teratoma is the most common type of mediastinal germ cell neoplasm. It usually becomes clinically apparent in early adult life. Preoperative evaluation generally includes computerized axial tomography (CT scan) in addition to PA and lateral chest roentgenograms. These procedures are diagnostic in a high percent of patients. Anterior-superior mediastinal tumors are easily removed through a midline sternotomy incision. This well-tolerated incision provides full access to the anterior-superior mediastinum and permits assessment of the relationship of the tumor to adjacent structures. The authors report their one-case experience and describe the histopathological and clinical aspects of this pathology and underline that a correct diagnostic procedure is helpful for correct surgical treatment.