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Extreme levels of alpha-fetoprotein in a newborn with a benign intrapericardial teratoma

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 February 2006

Bart Meuris ,
Marc Gewillig  and
Bart Meyns
Bart Meuris
Affiliation:
Department of Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
Marc Gewillig
Affiliation:
Department of Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Paediatric Cardiology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
Bart Meyns
Affiliation:
Department of Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Abstract

We report a neonate presenting with an intrapericardial benign teratoma and an exceptionally high level of alpha-fetoprotein. Such severe elevation of alpha-fetoprotein in a neonate with a teratoma is usually associated with the presence of immature or malignant elements, compromising the prognosis. The tumour in our patient, however, proved to be completely benign. We discuss recent findings with regard to normal levels of alpha-fetoprotein levels in preterm infants, and in children with neonatal teratomas.

Keywords

Cardiac tumours, congenital heart disease, paediatrics
Type
Brief Report
Information
Cardiology in the Young , Volume 16 , Issue 1 , January 2006 , pp. 76 - 77
Copyright
© 2006 Cambridge University Press

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