Germ Cell Tumor

Chapter 130 Germ Cell Tumor



INTRODUCTION



Description: The second most common type of ovarian tumor, germ cell tumors contain cells that echo the three layers of embryonic tissue (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm) or extraembryonic elements.

Prevalence: Second most frequent ovarian neoplasm (25% of tumors), most common ovarian tumor in women younger than age 30.

Predominant Age: Younger than 30, most common malignancy of women in their teens and 20s.

Genetics: No genetic pattern.


ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS



Causes: Unknown (may differentiate from primitive germ cells).

Risk Factors: None known.


CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS



Signs and Symptoms



• Asymptomatic

• Ovarian enlargement (Ovarian masses in premenarchal girls are most often germ cell tumors.)


DIAGNOSTIC APPROACH



Differential Diagnosis



• Benign adnexal masses (corpus luteum, follicular cyst)

• Endometriosis

• Hydrosalpinx

• Paratubal cyst

• Appendiceal abscess

• Ectopic pregnancy

• Pedunculated leiomyomata

• Pelvic or horseshoe kidney

• Nongynecologic pelvic masses


Associated Conditions: Varies with cell type.


WORKUP AND EVALUATION



Laboratory:

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Jun 6, 2016 | Posted by in GYNECOLOGY | Comments Off on Germ Cell Tumor

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