Management of Stage I Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors

Abstract

Testis cancer represents the model for a curable malignancy. Although there is consensus about the appropriate management of metastatic (clinical stage [CS] IIC-III) nonseminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) in terms of the chemotherapy regimens, number of cycles, and the surgical resection of postchemotherapy residual masses, there remains controversy regarding the appropriate management of low-stage NSGCT (CSI-IIB). In this article, the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment option are reviewed; an evidence-based approach when confronted with such a patient and how to best select a treatment avenue based on the patient's clinical and pathologic features are also discussed.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; Germ cell and embryonal; Lymph node excision; Neoplasm staging; Neoplasms; Retroperitoneum; Surveillance; Testicular neoplasms.