Huge Anterior Mediastinal Teratoma Leading to Orthopnea in a Young Patient

Abstract

The anterior mediastinal cysts and masses (AMCM) can be of varied origin and presentation. Although the space in the mediastinum is limited the cysts and masses can grow to a large size before the presentation. They displace the adjacent structures and then can grow into the pleural cavities thereby acquiring a large size. We share our experience of a case of a huge anterior mediastinal cystic mass in a young female who had a characteristic presentation of sudden onset breathlessness in the supine position and immediate relief in the sitting position. The patient recovered well after surgical treatment.