Germ cell tumor natural history

Prognosis
The 1997 International Germ Cell Consensus Classification is a tool for estimating the risk of relapse after treatment of malignant germ cell tumor.

A small study of ovarian tumors in girls reports a correlation between cystic and benign tumors and, conversely, solid and malignant tumors. Because the cystic extent of a tumor can be estimated by ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan before surgery, this permits selection of the most appropriate surgical plan to minimize risk of spillage of a malignant tumor.

The prognosis of germ cell tumor depends on the following:


 * Whether the tumor is benign or cancerous


 * Whether or not the tumor can be removed by surgery


 * The stage of the cancer: the size and location of the tumor, whether the cancer has spread outside the tumor


 * Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred


 * The patient’s general health