A fetal pericardial teratoma is a rare tumor located in the sac (pericardium) surrounding the heart.

These tumors are frequently attached to the outside of the heart at its base and receives its blood supply from one of the main arteries of the heart (the pulmonary artery or aorta).

While the tumor itself is benign, these tumors can be quite large and are associated with large fluid collections around the heart (pericardial effusion), which may impair heart function (cardiac tamponade) and result in fetal heart failure (hydrops) or arrhythmias. In addition, the tumor may  compress and distort normal heart anatomy.

During the prenatal period drainage of the fluid around the heart may be needed, and surgical removal of the tumor is often required after
delivery in the neonatal period.

*diagnostic information provided courtesy of our partners at Colorado Fetal Care Center

The Fetal Health Foundation is a parent-founded non profit giving hope to families experiencing a fetal syndrome diagnosis. Please reach out.