What symptoms can occur when a teratoma grows larger?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
After a teratoma grows larger, it generally may cause local mass and pressure sensation, abdominal discomfort or pain, abnormal bleeding, gastrointestinal symptoms, and systemic symptoms. As the teratoma increases in size, a relatively hard mass with well-defined borders can be palpated either on the body surface or internally; some of these masses have limited mobility. The mass may compress surrounding tissues, leading to increased frequency of urination.
Tumors may generally cause local masses and a sensation of pressure, abdominal discomfort or pain, abnormal bleeding, digestive system symptoms, and systemic symptoms as they grow larger. Specific details are as follows:
1. Local mass and sensation of pressure: As the teratoma grows in size, a firm, relatively well-defined mass may be palpable on the body surface or internally, with some masses exhibiting limited mobility. The mass can compress surrounding tissues, leading to increased frequency of urination; compression of the intestines may affect defecation, causing constipation or difficulty passing stool.
2. Abdominal discomfort or pain: Teratomas located in the abdominal or pelvic cavity may, upon enlargement, stretch surrounding tissues or compress nerves, resulting in dull or distending abdominal pain. Pain severity may gradually increase as the tumor enlarges. Sudden, severe abdominal pain may occur if the tumor undergoes torsion or rupture.
3. Abnormal bleeding: Teratomas in the female reproductive system (such as the ovary), when enlarged, may disrupt endocrine function or compress adjacent reproductive organs, leading to menstrual irregularities such as prolonged periods, increased menstrual flow, or vaginal bleeding outside the menstrual cycle.
4. Digestive system symptoms: Enlargement of intra-abdominal teratomas may compress the gastrointestinal tract, impairing digestive function and causing decreased appetite, bloating, nausea, and other symptoms. Some patients may also experience indigestion, with worsening discomfort after meals. Long-term compression may impair nutrient absorption.
5. Systemic symptoms: If the teratoma is malignant or causes chronic compression leading to infection, systemic symptoms may appear, including low-grade fever, fatigue, and significant weight loss. Malignant teratomas may also be associated with anemia, manifesting as pallor and lethargy.
If any of the above symptoms suggestive of growing teratoma are noticed, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended, including imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan, to determine the tumor's location, size, and characteristics.
