Yolk Sac Tumor with Mature Teratoma

Also known as: yolk sac tumor, YST, endodermal sinus tumor, mature cystic teratoma, dermoid cyst

What is yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma?

A yolk sac tumor and a teratoma are both categorized as germ cell tumors, which means they develop in the reproductive cells of the body. In the case of a yolk sac tumor, it develops in the cells that line the yolk sac of the embryo and is malignant (cancerous). A mature teratoma is usually benign (non-cancerous) and contains fragments of other body parts within the growth. In some cases, these two tumors can occur with one another.

What causes yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma?

These conditions develop due to changes in a cell’s DNA, and the exact cause isn’t clear. In the case of a mature teratoma, disruptions occur in the cells’ differentiation process, which causes them to form into different cells than their original intention.

What are the symptoms of yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma?

Symptoms may vary based on where the yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma is present in the body. This issue often arises in the ovaries or testicles and can lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, vaginal bleeding, constipation, painful urination, leg weakness and a visible mass, among other potential symptoms.

How can yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma affect children?

A yolk sac tumor is frequently found in infants around the ages of 1 or 2, though it can develop later in life, as well. Many of the cases of yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma in medical literature are in children around this age.

What are yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma treatments?

Surgery to remove the tumors, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are all potential treatments for yolk sac tumor with mature teratoma. In many cases, more than one of these treatment methods may be needed to rid the body of cancer.

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Reviewed by: Maggie Fader, MD

This page was last updated on: July 29, 2025 05:49 PM