Yolk sac tumor

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Yolk Sac Tumor

Yolk sac tumor (pronunciation: /joʊk sæk ˈtuːmər/), also known as endodermal sinus tumor, is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects children and young adults. It is a type of germ cell tumor that originates from the yolk sac of an embryo.

Etymology

The term "yolk sac tumor" is derived from the fact that these tumors originate from the yolk sac of an embryo. The yolk sac is an important structure in the early development of animals, providing nourishment to the embryo before the placenta is fully formed. The term "endodermal sinus tumor" refers to the tumor's resemblance to the endodermal sinus of the yolk sac.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a yolk sac tumor can vary depending on the location of the tumor. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, a palpable mass, and symptoms related to metastasis such as weight loss and fatigue. In males, yolk sac tumors often occur in the testes and can cause testicular swelling or pain. In females, these tumors often occur in the ovaries and can cause abdominal pain and bloating.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a yolk sac tumor typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan, and laboratory tests. A key marker for yolk sac tumors is elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the blood.

Treatment

Treatment for yolk sac tumors typically involves surgery to remove the tumor, followed by chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. The prognosis for yolk sac tumors is generally good, especially if the tumor is detected early and treated promptly.

Related Terms

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