Intrapulmonary mature teratoma: an unusual finding

Abstract

Teratomas are tumors consisting of tissues derived from more than one germ cell line. Usual locations are sacrococcygeal region, intracranial, mediastinum, and gonads. Entirely intrapulmonary teratomas, with no mediastinal component, are rarely reported. We present the case of a 37-year-old man who presented for evaluation due to persistent and progressive intermittent cough. There was no sputum or hemoptysis. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an irregular, cystic lesion in the upper lobe of his left lung, which raised suspicion for aspergilloma. The patient underwent a left thoracotomy and, after finding a completely collapsed and hypoplastic left lung almost entirely occupied by an irregular mass, a total left pneumonectomy was performed. Pathological review reported an entirely intrapulmonary mature teratoma. Intrapulmonary mature teratomas are extremely rare, although several have been reported. Trichoptysis (expectoration of hair) is a specific finding that may help distinguish this entity from mediastinal teratomas.