Ovarian germ cell tumors

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Ovarian germ cell tumors
Dysgerminoma under high magnification
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

Ovarian germ cell tumors can be classified into several types based on their histological characteristics:

Dysgerminoma

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

Immature teratoma under high magnification

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

Yolk sac tumor under intermediate magnification

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

Choriocarcinoma metastasis to lung under high magnification

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

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

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

Diagram of ovarian cancer treatment

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

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

• Ovarian cancer
• Germ cell tumor
• Teratoma
• Choriocarcinoma

Diagram of HIPEC procedure

See Also

• Oncology
• Gynecology
• Reproductive system