Germ Cell Tumours
Tumour Characteristics
There are several types of germ cell tumours (GCTs):
- Choriocarcinoma
- Embryonal carcinoma
- Germinoma
- Mixed germ cell tumour
- Teratoma
- Yolk sac tumour
Intracranial GCTs are typically found in midline sites such as the pineal region and the suprasellar regions, and commonly present in adolescents. Tumour markers (alpha 1-fetoprotein AFP and human chorionic gonadotropin [HCG]) should be obtained in the serum as well as in the craniospinal fluid, and if significantly positive for this tumour type, no histological confirmation may be required.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- Information to come.
Treatment/Standard of Care
Surgery is sometimes possible or a biopsy may be performed to obtain a diagnosis. Some germ cell tumours are sensitive to radiation. A shunt may be necessary to treat hydrocephalus (dilated ventricles due to cerebrospinal fluid blockage), although hydrocephalus may be initially controlled by the use of steroids.
Some germ cell tumours may be treated with chemotherapy.
