Neonatal Airway Obstruction Secondary to Nasopharyngeal Teratoma

Neoplasms of the nasopharynx are rare in neonates and infants. The most common nasopharyngeal tumors encountered in this age group are teratomata—neoplasms containing multiple heterotopic tissues. Of the four basic histologic types, dermoids are most frequently seen. An unusual case of a true teratoma in a premature infant with severe upper airway obstruction is presented. An extensive review of the world literature confirms the rarity of this lesion.