What type of cancer is a germ cell tumor?

Question

Hello doctor,

Recently I came to know that my ward has a germ cell tumor. He is undergoing surgery for the removal of the right testis today. It is unknown whether he is affected with cancer; if so, what is the type, and whether it is curable or not? How long will this take, and what are the steps that should be considered for the treatment?

Please help me because I am depressed.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

This is a high-grade testicular germ cell tumor (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The molecular markers such as hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) are high. Also, it's spread to the liver and adjacent lymph nodes.

Ideally, the primary tumor in the testis has to be removed and then treated with a chemotherapy called the BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin) regimen for the rest of the metastatic disease. If after surgery, his markers fall, and if he responds very well to chemotherapy, we can expect a cure, and we could do a stem cell transplant in the future. But for now, his plan would be a surgery followed by chemotherapy. Also, consider semen preservation before surgery and chemotherapy.

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This is proven to be cancer that has spread to the liver and some lymph nodes in the abdomen. It is called a seminoma (germ cell tumor). It can be fully cured provided the disease responds to chemotherapy. These tumors are susceptible to chemotherapy, so please initiate the treatment as soon as possible without delay. The lesions in the liver and abdomen are small and can be treated.

I hope this helps.