Teratomas, which are generally benign tumors, originate from stem cells, with the oropharynx<unk>  region being the second most common location for head and neck teratomas. The tumor arises from the palato-pharyngeal region around the basisphenoid (Rathke's pouch), or most commonly the base of the skull. Epignathi are present from birth and has been shown to affect all three germ layers (ectodermal, mesodermal, and endodermal layers) and can include cartilage, bone, and fat. Case reports describe the possibility for an<unk>  to present with an incompletely formed and parasitic fetal twin, which is called "fetus-in-fetu". Many case reports about babies with<unk>  have reported common malformations of cleft palate, and bifid tongue and/or nose. The tumor can grow within the oral cavity and protrude out of the mouth, causing obstruction of the airway and therefore mortality. This lesion may be associated with polyhydramnios, or excessive amniotic fluid around the fetus, and typically prevents the fetus from swallowing the amniotic fluid. In rare cases, the tumor may spread into the cranial cavity; some which have extended into the brain and others which have been encapsulated and do not enter the brain. Most neonates and young children who present with<unk>  have exhibited benign tumors, in comparison to older children and adults who have presented with more malignant teratomas. Recent findings have shown some genetic abnormalities associated with epignathi. There have been case reports noting chromosomal irregularities such as a 49,XXXXY karyotype, duplication of 1q and 19p, and ring X chromosome mosaicism. However, this theory is still inconclusive, as there have been other studies that have shown no chromosomal abnormalities.
Epignathus
Torus palatinus
Epiblepharon
Keratoconus
Omphalolith
Dens evaginatus
Condylomata lata
Paradental cyst