Teratoma

My niece has just been diagnosed as having a solid teratoma on each ovary.  Her consultant has recommended a complete hysterectomy and oophrectomy in a weeks time.  She also has fluid around the liver and a very high protein count in her blood.  She is extremely worried and doesn't feel that she has taken in everything that her consultant has said.  
Are these teratoma's likely to be malignant due to the fact that she is having surgery so soon?

Thank you for your help.

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
it is not possible to make a diagnosis of malignancy until the ovary is removed and evaluated microscopically.

If your niece did not take everything in, it is helpful to set up another appointment with the doctor. She should bring someone with her as another set of ears. Writing down questions in advance is helpful because it is common to forget everything when you are stressed.

Ultimately, the decision about surgery and the timing is best determined by the doctor who has the most information based on exam, xrays, and labs. So  your niece's doctor is in the best position to make this decision.
best wishes