Ovarian germ cell tumors
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
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Ovarian germ cell tumors | |
---|---|
Synonyms | N/A |
Pronounce | N/A |
Specialty | N/A |
Symptoms | Abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, irregular menstruation |
Complications | Infertility, metastasis |
Onset | Typically in young women and adolescents |
Duration | Variable |
Types | Dysgerminoma, Yolk sac tumor, Teratoma, Choriocarcinoma |
Causes | Unknown, but may involve genetic factors |
Risks | Family history, genetic conditions such as Turner syndrome |
Diagnosis | Pelvic examination, Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, Biopsy |
Differential diagnosis | Ovarian cyst, Ectopic pregnancy, Ovarian cancer |
Prevention | None specific |
Treatment | Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy |
Medication | Bleomycin, Etoposide, Cisplatin |
Prognosis | Generally good with treatment, varies by type |
Frequency | Rare, accounting for 2-3% of all ovarian tumors |
Deaths | N/A |
Ovarian germ cell tumors are a type of ovarian tumor that originate from the germ cells of the ovary. These tumors are relatively rare and account for approximately 2-3% of all ovarian cancers. They primarily affect young women and adolescents.
Types[edit | edit source]
Ovarian germ cell tumors can be classified into several types based on their histological characteristics:
Dysgerminoma[edit | edit source]
Dysgerminomas are the most common type of malignant germ cell tumor of the ovary. They are analogous to seminomas in males and are characterized by their sensitivity to radiation therapy. Dysgerminomas typically present as solid masses and are often unilateral.
Immature Teratoma[edit | edit source]
Immature teratomas contain immature or embryonic-like tissue and are considered malignant. They are graded based on the amount of immature tissue present. These tumors can grow rapidly and may spread to other parts of the body.
Yolk Sac Tumor[edit | edit source]
Also known as endodermal sinus tumors, yolk sac tumors are highly malignant and often secrete alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), which can be used as a tumor marker. They are aggressive and require prompt treatment.
Choriocarcinoma[edit | edit source]
Ovarian choriocarcinomas are rare and highly malignant tumors that can produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). They are known for their tendency to metastasize early, often to the lungs.
Mature Teratoma[edit | edit source]
Mature teratomas, also known as dermoid cysts, are usually benign and contain well-differentiated tissues such as skin, hair, and teeth. They are the most common type of germ cell tumor and are often found incidentally.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of ovarian germ cell tumors typically involves a combination of imaging studies, serum tumor markers, and histopathological examination. Ultrasound and CT scans are commonly used imaging modalities. Serum markers such as AFP, hCG, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) can aid in diagnosis and monitoring.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The treatment of ovarian germ cell tumors depends on the type and stage of the tumor. Surgery is often the first step, with the goal of removing the tumor while preserving fertility if possible. Chemotherapy is commonly used, especially for malignant tumors, with regimens often including bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP).
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for patients with ovarian germ cell tumors varies depending on the type and stage of the tumor. Dysgerminomas and immature teratomas generally have a good prognosis with appropriate treatment. Early-stage tumors have a high cure rate, while advanced-stage tumors require more aggressive treatment.
See Also[edit | edit source]
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD