Thoracic paravertebral teratoma: a case report and literature review

Teratomas are among the most common germ cell tumors found in children. They predominantly occur in the sacrococcygeal region and often in the spinal canal, whereas paravertebral teratomas are very rare. Herein, we present a case of a paravertebral teratoma incidentally discovered in an 11-year-old boy. The tumor was located between the diaphragm, parietal pleura, ribs, and intercostal muscles. Complete resection was achieved using the paramedian approach. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and no tumor residue or recurrence was observed at the 3-month follow-up. This case underscores the importance of considering teratomas in the differential diagnosis of paravertebral masses.