What is a mixed germ cell tumor brain?
Listen to pronunciation. (mikst jerm sel TOO-mer) A rare type of cancer that is made up of at least two different types of germ cell tumors (tumors that begin in cells that form sperm or eggs). These may include choriocarcinoma, embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor, teratoma, and seminoma.
What is the survival rate of germ cell tumor?
The 5-year survival rate for teens ages 15 to 19 is 93%. The survival and cure rates also depend on several factors, including the stage of the disease. The cure rate for children with a stage I or stage II germ cell tumor is 90%. The cure rate for a stage III tumor is 87%.
How does germ cell tumors affect the brain?
If your child has a germ cell brain tumor, the symptoms that occur depend on its location. Tumors in the pineal region of the brain can cause these symptoms: Increased fluid in the brain (hydrocephalus) Headache.
What are the four types of malignant germ cell tumors?
The most common types of germ cell tumors include:
- Teratomas. These tumors are benign, but can become malignant.
- Germinomas.
- Yolk sac tumor (also called endodermal sinus tumor).
- Embryonal carcinoma.
- Choriocarcinoma.
- Imaging studies.
- Biopsy.
- Blood tests.
Can germ cell tumors come back?
After this time, it is unlikely that the tumor will recur, and the focus of follow-up care changes to watching for possible late side effects of chemotherapy, if it was given. Be sure to talk with your child’s doctor about the specific risks based on the specific chemotherapy your child received.
Where do germ cell tumors arise from?
Germ cell tumors arise in the ovaries (in girls), the testes (in boys), and in several other locations, including the lower back (common in infancy), the abdomen, the chest, and within the brain. Germ cell tumors starting within the brain are discussed further under Brain Tumors.
Do germ cell tumors come back?
How do providers treat benign (noncancerous) ovarian germ cell tumors? Healthcare providers remove benign tumors surgically. Sometimes, they need to remove the ovary (or part of the ovary) when removing the tumor. Benign tumors rarely grow back after providers remove them.
Can germ cell tumors spread?
Germ cell tumors can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. The most common sites for metastasis are the lungs, liver, lymph nodes, and central nervous system. Rarely, germ cell tumors can spread to the bone, bone marrow, and other organs.
Can dysgerminoma come back?
Ovarian dysgerminoma is a rare type of germ cell tumor. The majority of patient relapses occur within 2 years of diagnosis.
Are germ cell tumors hereditary?
The cause of germ cell tumors isn’t fully known. Some gene defects passed on from parents to children (inherited) may increase the risk for germ cell tumors. Some genetic syndromes can cause abnormal growth of the male and female reproductive systems.
Can Dysgerminoma come back?
What are the signs of germ cell tumor?
Common signs of germ cell tumors include:
- A mass on your ovaries or testicles.
- Belly pain and swelling (caused by tumor)
- Bathroom troubles (a hard time pooping or holding in your pee, if the tumor is near your pelvis)
- Breast growth, pubic hair, or vaginal bleeding at an earlier age than normal.
- Belly or chest pain.