Clinical outcomes after treatment of germ cell tumors

Abstract

Intracranial GCTs are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms most commonly diagnosed in the pediatric population. Germinomas are exquisitely radiosensitive with long-term survival rates in excess of 90% with radiotherapy alone. NGGCTs are associated with a poorer prognosis and are typically treated with a combination of radiation and chemotherapy. Given the young age of these patients, achieving optimal outcomes will ultimately require a careful balance of maximizing disease control while minimizing adverse treatment effects. Here we review the management of intracranial GCTs and discuss the clinical outcomes of patients who undergo treatment for these rare and fascinating tumors.