Copyright (c) 2026 Niko A. Díaz García , Fernando Guillermo Carrillo, Moisés Vigil, Ernesto Dominguez Aparicio
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Introduction Mature cystic teratoma (MCT) is a benign tumor derived from the three germ layers. Malignant transformation of an MCT is rare, occurring in between 0.17% and 2% of all cases.
Clinical case A 44-year-old female patient with no personal history of disease presented with a history of right pelvic pain, which was sharp, moderate in intensity, and did not radiate. There were no signs of ascites, guarding, or rebound tenderness. Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) revealed a complex right ovarian lesion, so a right salpingo-oophorectomy was performed. Subsequent imaging studies reported
extensive tumor spread. Cytoreductive surgery found pelvic infiltration and positive margins.
Discussion The main factors for malignant transformation include age (>45 years), size (>10 cm), and suggestive findings on imaging studies. Transvaginal ultrasound is useful initially, but more specific studies should be performed. Treatment is based on surgery and chemotherapy.
Conclusion Mature cystic teratoma with malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma is a rare entity. Histopathological diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to improve the prognosis and survival of patients.
