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Kremenevski N, Buchfelder M, Hore N. Intracranial Germinomas: Diagnosis, Pathogenesis, Clinical Presentation, and Management. Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:765-775. [PMID: 37036624 PMCID: PMC10256636 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01416-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Intracranial germinomas constitute a rare brain tumor entity of unknown etiology, characterized by unique histopathology and molecular biology. In this manuscript, we review the literature focusing on the epidemiology, histopathology with molecular biology, clinical presentation with emphasis on tumor location, diagnostic workup, and current treatment strategies with related clinical outcomes of intracranial germinomas. RECENT FINDINGS Although the optimal treatment strategy remains a matter of debate, intracranial germinomas respond well to radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both and are characterized by very high cure and survival rates. It is well-known that early discrimination of germinomas from other intracranial neoplasms facilitates the timely initiation of appropriate treatment, thereby contributing to the reduction of morbidity as well as mortality. Ongoing research will need to be directed towards discovering and refining reliable parameters for early diagnosis and evaluation of prognosis in patients with intracranial germinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kremenevski
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Michael Buchfelder
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nirjhar Hore
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Shi L, Shen L, Jian J, Xia W, Yang KD, Tian Y, Huang J, Yuan B, Shen L, Liu Z, Zhang J, Zhang R, Wu K, Jing D, Gao X. Contribution of whole slide imaging-based deep learning in the assessment of intraoperative and postoperative sections in neuropathology. Brain Pathol 2023:e13160. [PMID: 37186490 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathological diagnosis of intracranial germinoma (IG), oligodendroglioma, and low-grade astrocytoma on intraoperative frozen section (IFS) and hematoxylin-eosin (HE)-staining section directly determines patients' treatment options, but it is a difficult task for pathologists. We aimed to investigate whether whole-slide imaging (WSI)-based deep learning can contribute new precision to the diagnosis of IG, oligodendroglioma, and low-grade astrocytoma. Two types of WSIs (500 IFSs and 832 HE-staining sections) were collected from 379 patients at multiple medical centers. Patients at Center 1 were split into the training, testing, and internal validation sets (3:1:1), while the other centers were the external validation sets. First, we subdivided WSIs into small tiles and selected tissue tiles using a tissue tile selection model. Then a tile-level classification model was established, and the majority voting method was used to determine the final diagnoses. Color jitter was applied to the tiles so that the deep learning (DL) models could adapt to the variations in the staining. Last, we investigated the effectiveness of model assistance. The internal validation accuracies of the IFS and HE models were 93.9% and 95.3%, respectively. The external validation accuracies of the IFS and HE models were 82.0% and 76.9%, respectively. Furthermore, the IFS and HE models can predict Ki-67 positive cell areas with R2 of 0.81 and 0.86, respectively. With model assistance, the IFS and HE diagnosis accuracy of pathologists improved from 54.6%-69.7% and 53.5%-83.7% to 87.9%-93.9% and 86.0%-90.7%, respectively. Both the IFS model and the HE model can differentiate the three tumors, predict the expression of Ki-67, and improve the diagnostic accuracy of pathologists. The use of our model can assist clinicians in providing patients with optimal and timely treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liting Shi
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Lin Shen
- Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Junming Jian
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
- Jinan Guoke Medical Engineering and Technology Development Co., Ltd., Jinan, China
- Department of Radiology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ke-Da Yang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yifu Tian
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianghai Huang
- Department of Pathology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bowen Yuan
- Department of Pathology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liangfang Shen
- Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhengzheng Liu
- Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
- Jinan Guoke Medical Engineering and Technology Development Co., Ltd., Jinan, China
- Department of Radiology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Keqing Wu
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Di Jing
- Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xin Gao
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
- Jinan Guoke Medical Engineering and Technology Development Co., Ltd., Jinan, China
- Department of Radiology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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Suzuki T, Shirahata M, Adachi JI, Mishima K, Nishikawa R. Clinical significance and pitfalls of human chorionic gonadotropin-related tumor markers for intracranial germinomas. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:901-907. [PMID: 36745216 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-05856-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Measuring serum and cerebrospinal fluid human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is essential for the diagnosis of intracranial germ cell tumors. There are three types of hCG-related markers in clinical use: hCGβ, intact hCG, and total hCG. The best marker for the diagnosis of intracranial germ cell tumors, especially germinoma, is currently unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of these hCG-related markers. METHODS We investigated 19 serum samples obtained from 6 patients with histologically diagnosed germinoma treated in our institute. Serum hCGβ, intact hCG, and total hCG values were measured before, during, and after treatment. Samples with hCG values above the lower limits were considered positive. RESULTS The positivity rates of serum hCGβ, intact hCG, and total hCG were 6% (1/17), 47% (7/15), and 42% (8/19), respectively, with the latter two having significantly higher positivity rates than hCGβ (p = 0.041). Both intact and total hCGs showed similar values. The median values of hCGβ, intact hCG, and total hCG before treatment were 0.1 ng/mL, 4.6 mIU/mL, and 4.5 mIU/mL, respectively. CONCLUSION Serum intact and total hCGs have higher detection rates than hCGβ in patients with germinoma using available commercial measurement tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonari Suzuki
- Department of Neuro-Oncology/Neurosurgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1, Yamane, Hidaka City, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan.
| | - Mitsuaki Shirahata
- Department of Neuro-Oncology/Neurosurgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1, Yamane, Hidaka City, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Adachi
- Department of Neuro-Oncology/Neurosurgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1, Yamane, Hidaka City, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Mishima
- Department of Neuro-Oncology/Neurosurgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1, Yamane, Hidaka City, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan
| | - Ryo Nishikawa
- Department of Neuro-Oncology/Neurosurgery, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, 1397-1, Yamane, Hidaka City, Saitama, 350-1298, Japan
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Upadhyayula PS, Neira JA, Miller ML, Bruce JN. Benign and Malignant Tumors of the Pineal Region. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1405:153-173. [PMID: 37452938 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-23705-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Pineal region tumors fall into five broad categories: benign pineal region tumors, glial tumors, papillary tumors, pineal parenchymal tumors, and germ cell tumors. Genetic and transcriptional studies have identified key chromosomal alterations in germinomas (RUNDC3A, ASAH1, LPL) and in pineocytomas/pineoblastomas (DROSHA/DICER1, RB1). Pineal region tumors generally present with symptoms of hydrocephalus including nausea, vomiting, papilledema, and the classical Parinaud's triad of upgaze paralysis, convergence-retraction nystagmus, and light-near pupillary dissociation. Workup requires neuroimaging and tissue diagnosis via biopsy. In germinoma cases, diagnosis may be made based on serum or CSF studies for alpha-fetoprotein or beta-HCG making the preferred treatment radiosurgery, thereby preventing the need for unnecessary surgeries. Treatment generally involves three steps: CSF diversion in cases of hydrocephalus, biopsy through endoscopic or stereotactic methods, and open surgical resection. Multiple surgical approaches are possible for approach to the pineal region. The original approach to the pineal region was the interhemispheric transcallosal first described by Dandy. The most common approach is the supracerebellar infratentorial approach as it utilizes a natural anatomic corridor for access to the pineal region. The paramedian or lateral supracerebellar infratentorial approach is another improvement that uses a similar anatomic corridor but allows for preservation of midline bridging veins; this minimizes the chance for brainstem or cerebellar venous infarction. Determination of the optimal approach relies on tumor characteristics, namely location of deep venous structures to the tumor along with the lateral eccentricity of the tumor. The immediate post-operative period is important as hemorrhage or swelling can cause obstructive hydrocephalus and lead to rapid deterioration. Adjuvant therapy, whether chemotherapy or radiation, is based on tumor pathology. Improvements within pineal surgery will require improved technology for access to the pineal region along with targeted therapies that can effectively treat and prevent recurrence of malignant pineal region tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin A Neira
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Michael L Miller
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Jeffrey N Bruce
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University, New York, USA.
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Yamaguchi S, Okamoto M, Ishi Y, Sawaya R, Motegi H, Sugiyama M, Harada T, Fujima N, Mori T, Hashimoto T, Takakuwa E, Manabe A, Kudo K, Aoyama H, Fujimura M. Long-term consequences of residual lesions after chemoradiotherapy in patients with germinoma at onset. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022; 30:517-524. [PMID: 36087334 DOI: 10.3171/2022.8.peds22301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In patients with intracranial germ cell tumors, residual lesions are sometimes observed after completion of primary chemoradiotherapy. Although salvage resection of these end-of-treatment residual lesions is recommended for patients with nongerminomatous germ cell tumors, the necessity of early salvage resection for those with germinoma is not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of residual germinoma lesions after primary chemoradiotherapy, as well as their management, long-term consequences, and prognosis. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed patients who were primarily treated for germinoma between 2002 and 2021. Residual lesions were evaluated with MRI with and without contrast enhancement within 2 weeks after chemoradiotherapy. The decision to perform salvage resection of residual lesions was at the discretion of the treating physicians. The change in appearance of residual lesions was assessed with serial MRI. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and recurrence pattern were also investigated. RESULTS Sixty-nine patients were treated with chemoradiotherapy for germinoma, with a mean follow-up period of 108 months. Residual lesions were radiologically observed in 30 patients (43.5%). Among these, 5 patients (3 with pineal lesions and 2 with basal ganglia lesions) underwent salvage resection. Pathological examination revealed teratomatous components in 3 patients, whereas no tumoral components were identified in 2 patients. One patient with a basal ganglia lesion showed worsening of hemiparesis postoperatively. The remaining 25 patients received watchful observation without surgical intervention. Chronological periodic radiological change in residual lesions was evaluated in 21 patients. One year after primary treatment, the size of the residual lesions was stable and had decreased in 10 and 11 patients, respectively. None of the lesions increased in size. The 10-year PFS and OS rates were 96.7% and 97.3% in patients without residual lesions (n = 39), and 87.1% and 100% in patients with residual lesions (n = 30), respectively. Presence of residual lesions had no significant effect on PFS or OS. All recurrences occurred at distant sites or via dissemination without progression of the primary tumor site, regardless of the presence of residual lesion. CONCLUSIONS End-of-treatment residual lesions are not rare in patients with germinoma, and these residual lesions seldom show progression. Because of the potential risk of surgical complications, the indication for early salvage surgery for residual lesions should be carefully determined. Watchful observation is recommended for the majority of these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Emi Takakuwa
- 5Surgical Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Shabo E, Czech T, Nicholson JC, Mallucci C, Mottolese C, Piatelli G, Frappaz D, Murray MJ, Faure-Conter C, Garrè ML, Sarikaya-Seiwert S, Weinhold L, Haberl H, Calaminus G. Evaluation of the Perioperative and Postoperative Course of Surgery for Pineal Germinoma in the SIOP CNS GCT 96 Trial. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143555. [PMID: 35884617 PMCID: PMC9323477 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: CNS germinoma, being marker-negative, are mainly diagnosed by histological examination. These tumors predominantly appear in the suprasellar and/or pineal region. In contrast to the suprasellar region, where biopsy is the standard procedure in case of a suspected germ-cell tumor to avoid mutilation to the endocrine structures, pineal tumors are more accessible to primary resection. We evaluated the perioperative course of patients with pineal germinoma who were diagnosed by primary biopsy or resection in the SIOP CNS GCT 96 trial. Methods: Overall, 235 patients had germinoma, with pineal localization in 113. The relationship between initial symptoms, tumor size, and postoperative complications was analyzed. Results: Of 111 evaluable patients, initial symptoms were headache (n = 98), hydrocephalus (n = 93), double vision (n = 62), Parinaud syndrome (n = 57), and papilledema (n = 44). There was no significant relationship between tumor size and primary symptoms. A total of 57 patients underwent primary resection and 54 underwent biopsy. Postoperative complications were reported in 43.2% of patients after resection and in 11.4% after biopsy (p < 0.008). Biopsy was significantly more commonly performed on larger tumors (p= 0.002). Conclusions: These results support the practice of biopsy over resection for histological confirmation of pineal germinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehab Shabo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-228-287-16521; Fax: +49-228-287-11366
| | - Thomas Czech
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - James C. Nicholson
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK;
| | - Conor Mallucci
- Department of Neurosurgery, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (C.M.); (M.J.M.)
| | - Carmine Mottolese
- Neurochirurgie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Université de Lyon, 59, Boulevard Pinel, 69003 Lyon, France;
| | - Gianluca Piatelli
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Giannina Gaslini Children’s Hospital, 16147 Genvoa, Italy;
| | - Didier Frappaz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Institut d’Hématologie et d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, 69008 Lyon, France; (D.F.); (C.F.-C.)
| | - Matthew Jonathan Murray
- Department of Neurosurgery, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (C.M.); (M.J.M.)
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Cecile Faure-Conter
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Institut d’Hématologie et d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, 69008 Lyon, France; (D.F.); (C.F.-C.)
| | - Maria Luisa Garrè
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy;
| | - Sevgi Sarikaya-Seiwert
- Section of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Rheinische, Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (S.S.-S.); (H.H.)
| | - Leonie Weinhold
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Hannes Haberl
- Section of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Rheinische, Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (S.S.-S.); (H.H.)
| | - Gabriele Calaminus
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
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Vij M, Bhardwaj S. Primary spinal dorsal extramedullary germ cell tumor: A rare case report and literature review. Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:603. [PMID: 34992920 PMCID: PMC8720437 DOI: 10.25259/sni_575_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Primary spinal extramedullary germ cell tumor are very rare. Germ cell tumor are similar histologically to germ cells of genital organs and may arise rarely from central and peripheral nervous system. Case Description: We report a case of 20-year-old male who presented with progressive lower extremity weakness, spasticity, and numbness of legs. Patient was evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging dorsal spine which revealed extramedullary mass in dorsal (D2-D3) level with severe cord compression. Tumor was found to be extramedullary with histopathology consistent with germ cell tumor. Patient was given radiotherapy and chemotherapy postoperatively. Conclusion: Primary spinal extramedullary germ cell tumors are very rare and are very sensitive to radiation and chemotherapy. Various management and treatment protocols are available across institutions in the world. We recommend adequate decompression of cord with biopsy followed by local radiation and chemotherapy. As these are rare tumors, presenting with significant neurological deficits should always be kept in the differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Vij
- Department of Neurosurgery, EMC Super Speciality Hospital, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Sandeep Bhardwaj
- Department of Neurosurgery, Advanced Neurology and Superspeciality Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
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Graham RT, Abu-Arja MH, Stanek JR, Cappellano A, Coleman C, Chi S, Cooney T, Dhall G, Ellen JG, Finlay JL, Fisher MJ, Friedman GK, Gajjar A, Gauvain K, Hoffman LM, Hukin J, Lucas JT, Mueller S, Navalkele P, Ronsley R, Tinkle C, Villeneuve S, Yeo KK, Su JM, Margol A, Gottardo NG, Allen J, Packer R, Bartels U, Abdelbaki MS. Multi-institutional analysis of treatment modalities in basal ganglia and thalamic germinoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29172. [PMID: 34125480 PMCID: PMC9639702 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Central nervous system (CNS) germinomas are treatment-sensitive tumors with excellent survival outcomes. Current treatment strategies combine chemotherapy with radiotherapy (RT) in order to reduce the field and dose of RT. Germinomas originating in the basal ganglia/thalamus (BGTGs) have proven challenging to treat given their rarity and poorly defined imaging characteristics. Craniospinal (CSI), whole brain (WBI), whole ventricle (WVI), and focal RT have all been utilized; however, the best treatment strategy remains unclear. METHODS Retrospective multi-institutional analysis has been conducted across 18 institutions in four countries. RESULTS For 43 cases of nonmetastatic BGTGs, the 5- and 10-year event-free survivals (EFS) were 85.8% and 81.0%, respectively, while the 5- and 10-year overall survivals (OS) were 100% and 95.5%, respectively (one patient fatality from unrelated cause). Median RT doses were as follows: CSI: 2250 cGy/cGy(RBE) (1980-2400); WBI: 2340 cGy/cGy(RBE) (1800-3000); WVI: 2340 cGy/cGy(RBE) (1800-2550); focal: 3600 cGy (3060-5400). Thirty-eight patients (90.5%) received chemotherapy. There was no statistically significant difference in the EFS based on initial field extent (p = .84). Nevertheless, no relapses were reported in patients who received CSI or WBI. Chemotherapy alone had significantly inferior EFS compared to combined therapy (p = .0092), but patients were salvageable with RT. CONCLUSION Patients with BGTGs have excellent outcomes and RT proved to be an integral component of the treatment plan. This group of patients should be included in future prospective clinical trials and the best RT field should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard T. Graham
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mohammad H. Abu-Arja
- The Department of Pediatrics, New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Weill-Cornell College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, USA.,Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joseph R. Stanek
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrea Cappellano
- Instituto de Oncologia Pediátrica GRAACC/UNIFESP, Division of Neuroncology, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Christina Coleman
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology, and Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Susan Chi
- Dana Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorder Center, Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Boston MA, USA
| | - Tabitha Cooney
- Dana Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorder Center, Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Boston MA, USA
| | - Girish Dhall
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jacob G. Ellen
- Division of Oncology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jonathan L. Finlay
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Michael J. Fisher
- Division of Oncology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gregory K. Friedman
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Amar Gajjar
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Karen Gauvain
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lindsey M. Hoffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Juliette Hukin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Children’s and Women’s Health Centre of B.C., University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - John T. Lucas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sabine Mueller
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology, and Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Pournima Navalkele
- Department of Pediatrics, SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rebecca Ronsley
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Children’s and Women’s Health Centre of B.C., University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher Tinkle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Stephanie Villeneuve
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Izaak Walton Killam Hospital for Children, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Kee Kiat Yeo
- Dana Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorder Center, Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Boston MA, USA
| | - Jack M. Su
- Texas Children’s Cancer Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ashley Margol
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute and Division of Hematology-Oncology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas G. Gottardo
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology/Haematology, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Allen
- Department of Pediatrics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roger Packer
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Brain Tumor Institute, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ute Bartels
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohamed S. Abdelbaki
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
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9
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Sharafeddine H, Hamideh D, Morsi RZ, Najjar MW. Surgical techniques in the management of supratentorial pediatric brain tumors: 10 years' experience at a tertiary care center in the Middle East. Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:269. [PMID: 34221600 PMCID: PMC8247713 DOI: 10.25259/sni_205_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The goal of this retrospective study is to present the first epidemiological data on pediatric supratentorial central nervous system (CNS) tumors in Lebanon and to review the various surgical management strategies used. Methods: We conducted a retrospective case series of all pediatric patients who presented with a supratentorial CNS tumor and underwent surgery at our institution between 2006 and 2016. We collected and analyzed demographic characteristics, tumor location, clinical manifestations, histopathology, and surgical management strategies and outcome, and discussed them after dividing the tumors as per location and in view of published literature. Results: Ninety-nine children were studied with a male-to-female ratio of 2.3:1 and a mean age of 8.5 years. The most common location was convexity (44%) and included low-grade and high-grade glial tumors, along with other miscellaneous lesions. The next location was sellar/diencephalic (34%), including craniopharyngiomas, hypothalamic/optic pathway/thalamic gliomas, hamartomas, and pituitary/Rathke’s cyst, where there was notable use of endoscopic techniques (21%). Tumors in the pineal region (13%) were tectal gliomas, germ cell tumors, and pineoblastomas and were mostly treated endoscopically. The last group was lateral intraventricular tumors (8%) and was mostly choroid plexus lesions and ependymomas. Overall, the surgical objective was achieved in 95% with mild/moderate complications in 17%. Conclusion: A variety of pathologies may affect the pediatric population in the supratentorial region. Different surgical strategies, including microsurgical and endoscopic techniques, may be employed to remove, debulk, or biopsy these tumors depending on their location, suspected diagnosis, prognosis, and the need for treatment of possible associated hydrocephalus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Sharafeddine
- Department of Surgery-Neurosurgery, American University of Beirut, United States
| | - Dima Hamideh
- Department of Pediatrics, Children Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, United States
| | - Rami Z Morsi
- Department of Neurology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Marwan W Najjar
- Department of Surgery-Neurosurgery, American University of Beirut, United States
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10
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Single-institution case series of pituitary biopsy for suspected germinoma in the pediatric population: diagnostic utility, operative risks, and biopsy approaches. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15257. [PMID: 32943645 PMCID: PMC7499298 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71988-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Little has been reported on the safety and efficacy of pituitary biopsy in the pediatric population for suspected germinoma. An updated review is needed. Patients who underwent biopsy (endoscopic endonasal vs. open craniotomy) for isolated pituitary stalk thickening were identified. Age, pre- and post-operative endocrine status, surgical approach, length of surgery, estimated blood loss, surgical morbidity, length of ICU stay, total length of stay, and pathology reports were reviewed. Nine patients met inclusion criteria. Germinoma diagnosis was rendered in 7 of 9 patients; 1 patient required two biopsy attempts. Two-patients had histology consistent with inflammation and a subsequently self-limited disease course. Average operative time, blood loss, ICU stay and overall length of stay was just over 2 h, 28 mL, 1.6 days and 3.7 days respectively. There were no intraoperative complications and all patients were discharged home. One patient developed new diabetes insipidus post-operatively. Patients who underwent endoscopic biopsy had decreased operative times and shorter hospitalizations. Biopsy for isolated pituitary stalk thickening for suspected germinoma is generally safe with high diagnostic utility. Importantly, 22% of presumed germinomas on imaging yielded alternative diagnoses on biopsy, adding support for pathology-proven data to guide treatment in relevant cases.
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11
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Okamoto M, Yamaguchi S, Ishi Y, Motegi H, Mori T, Hashimoto T, Terashita Y, Hirabayashi S, Sugiyama M, Iguchi A, Cho Y, Manabe A, Houkin K. Diagnostic Capability of Cerebrospinal Fluid-Placental Alkaline Phosphatase Value in Intracranial Germ Cell Tumor. Oncology 2020; 99:23-31. [PMID: 32906115 DOI: 10.1159/000509395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most types of intracranial germ cell tumors (IGCTs) are sensitive to chemoradiation. However, biopsy specimens are usually small and thus cannot be used for obtaining an accurate pathological diagnosis. Recently, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) value has been considered a new biomarker of IGCTs. The present study aimed to evaluate the discriminatory characteristics of the CSF-PLAP value upon diagnosis and at the time of recurrence in patients with IGCTs. METHODS Between 2015 and 2019, this study included 37 patients with tumors located in the intraventricular and/or periventricular region. The CSF-PLAP level was assessed before the patients received any treatment. The PLAP level was evaluated during and after first-line chemoradiotherapy in 7 patients with IGCTs. The CSF-PLAP values were compared according to histological diagnosis, and the correlation between these values and radiographical features was assessed. The CSF-PLAP values of 6 patients with IGCTs with suspected recurrence were evaluated based on neuroimaging findings. RESULTS The CSF-PLAP values were significantly higher in patients with IGCTs than in those with other types of brain tumor (n = 19 vs. 18; median: 359.0 vs. <8.0 pg/mL). The specificity and sensitivity were 88 and 95%, respectively, with a cutoff value of 8.0 pg/mL. In patients with IGCT, the CSF-PLAP value was higher in patients with germinoma than in those with nongerminomatous germ cell tumors (n = 12 vs. 7; median: 415.0 vs. 359.0 pg/mL). Regarding the time course, the CSF-PLAP value decreased to below the detection limit after the reception of first-line chemoradiotherapy in all 7 patients. A significant correlation was observed between the initial CSF-PLAP value and the tumor reduction volume after receiving first-line chemoradiotherapy (p < 0.0003, R2 = 0.6165, logY = 1.202logX - 1.727). Among the patients with suspected IGCT recurrence (n = 6), the CSF-PLAP value was high in patients with recurrence (n = 3; median: 259.0 pg/mL), and that in patients (n = 3) without recurrence was below the lower detection limit. CONCLUSIONS The CSF-PLAP level is a useful biomarker during the initial diagnosis of IGCTs and at the time of recurrence. It may be associated with the volume of germinomatous components of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michinari Okamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shigeru Yamaguchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan,
| | - Yukitomo Ishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Motegi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takashi Mori
- Department of Oral Radiology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Hashimoto
- Department of Radiation Medical Science and Engineering, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yukayo Terashita
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Hirabayashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Minako Sugiyama
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Akihiro Iguchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yuko Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Manabe
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kiyohiro Houkin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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12
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Mascarin M, Coassin E, Franceschi E, Gandola L, Carrabba G, Brandes AA, Massimino M. Medulloblastoma and central nervous system germ cell tumors in adults: is pediatric experience applicable? Childs Nerv Syst 2019; 35:2279-2287. [PMID: 31414168 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-019-04340-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma and central nervous system (CNS) germ cell tumors are very rare in adults, while they account for 25% and 5% of brain tumors in children, respectively (Pastore et al. Eur J Cancer 42:2064-208, 2006). Pediatric experiences, mostly from randomized and controlled clinical trials, have led to different tailored treatments, based on various risk factors, including histology, and extent of disease. For medulloblastoma, biological features have recently emerged that enable therapies to be scaled down in some cases, or pursued more aggressively in the event of chromosomal and/or genetic alterations (Massimino et al. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 105:35-51, 2016). Such refinements are still impossible for adult patients due to the lack of similar clinical trials that might provide the same or a different understanding regarding patients' prognosis, long-term survival, quality of life, and acute and late toxicities. This review aims to contribute to the debate on the treatment of adults with these two diseases and promote the creation of broad-based, national and international trials to advance our knowledge in this area and to share the skills between pediatric and adult oncologists as adolescent and young adults (AYA) brain tumor national boards are currently requiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Mascarin
- SOSD Oncologia Integrata del Giovane e Radioterapia Pediatrica, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Elisa Coassin
- SOSD Oncologia Integrata del Giovane e Radioterapia Pediatrica, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | | | - Lorenza Gandola
- SC Pediatria, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian, 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carrabba
- UOC Neurochirurgia, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maura Massimino
- SC Pediatria, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian, 1, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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13
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Cossu G, Brouland JP, La Rosa S, Camponovo C, Viaroli E, Daniel RT, Messerer M. Comprehensive Evaluation of Rare Pituitary Lesions: A Single Tertiary Care Pituitary Center Experience and Review of the Literature. Endocr Pathol 2019; 30:219-236. [PMID: 31209729 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-019-09581-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The 2017 World Health Organization classification of central nervous system and endocrine tumors have introduced significant changes in the diagnostic criteria for pituitary lesions. The aim of our paper is to describe the epidemiological, clinico-pathological, and radiological features of a single consecutive institutional surgical series of rare pituitary lesions, using these new criteria. Of the 316 endoscopic endonasal trans-sphenoidal approaches performed for pituitary lesions between 2010 and 2018, 15 rare lesions were encountered. These included metastases, pituitary carcinomas, pituicytomas, granular cell tumor, primary pituitary lymphomas, germinoma, mixed gangliocytoma-adenoma, hypophysitis, and pituitary hyperplasia. Their clinical, radiological, and pathological features are herewith presented along with a literature review that enabled us to propose an algorithm to facilitate a diagnosis for rare pituitary lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cossu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 44, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Philippe Brouland
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stefano La Rosa
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Camponovo
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Edoardo Viaroli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 44, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Roy Thomas Daniel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 44, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mahmoud Messerer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 44, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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14
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Arnaout MM, Gerges MM, Cummock MD, El Asri AC, Greenfield JP, Anand VK, Schwartz TH. Endonasal surgery for suprasellar germ cell tumors: two cases and review of the literature. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2019; 161:1699-1704. [PMID: 31214781 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-019-03969-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell tumors are rare malignant tumors frequently located in the suprasellar region. Definitive treatment is chemotherapy and radiation. However, in some circumstances, surgery is indicated for biopsy or resection. There are limited reports of the role of the endonasal endoscopic approach (EEA) in the management of this tumor. We present two cases in which EEA was utilized for successful management of germ cell tumor. The most challenging aspect of germ cell tumor management for the treating physician is knowing the proper indications for surgery. In this paper, we highlight two specific instances, namely diagnosis and tumor refractory to chemoradiation. Given the suprasellar location, EEA is an ideal approach.
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15
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Takada A, Ii N, Hirayama M, Toyoda H, Matsubara T, Toyomasu Y, Kawamura T, Daimon T, Sakuma H, Nomoto Y. Long-term follow-up of intensive chemotherapy followed by reduced-dose and reduced-field irradiation for intracranial germ cell tumor. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2018; 23:317-324. [PMID: 30497152 DOI: 10.3171/2018.9.peds18181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors analyzed the efficacy of intensive chemotherapy followed by reduced-dose and reduced-field irradiation for intracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs) and evaluated the long-term late effects caused by chemoradiotherapy (CRT). METHODS The authors performed a retrospective study. The subjects were 24 patients who received CRT between April 1994 and April 2015. After surgery, intensive chemotherapy followed by reduced-dose and reduced-field irradiation was administered. For those with pure germinoma, who comprised the “good prognosis” group, five courses of conventional-dose chemotherapy (CDC) were administered, and radiotherapy (24 Gy) was applied to the whole ventricle. For all others, defined as the “intermediate and poor prognosis” group, two or three courses of CDC and high-dose chemotherapy were administered with peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and radiotherapy (24–30 Gy) applied to the whole ventricle or a larger field with or without local boost irradiation (20 Gy), which was applied as needed. RESULTS The median period of follow-up was 112.5 months (range 28–261 months), and the 5-/10-year overall and progression-free survival rates were 100%/83.5% and 91.3%/86.5%, respectively. The 5-/10-year overall survival rates determined based on the histological subtypes were 100%/100% for pure germinoma and 93.8%/78.7% for others, respectively. The late toxicities were as follows: endocrine disorder (33% in pure germinoma, 56% in others), involuntary movements (17% in pure germinoma, 39% in others), ear and labyrinth disorders (17% in pure germinoma, 33% in others), and psychiatric disorders (0% in pure germinoma, 33% in others). Nineteen of 24 patients underwent MRI (T2*- or susceptibility-weighted imaging) after radiotherapy, and 16 (84%) of those 19 patients had microbleeds detected, while 2 (10.5%) had radiation-induced cavernous vascular malformations detected. CONCLUSIONS Intensive chemotherapy followed by reduced-dose and reduced-field irradiation for intracranial GCTs had the same outcome as that reported in the literature, but late adverse effects after treatment were observed. Almost all of the complications were relatively mild but had the potential to lead to psychiatric disorders and intracranial hemorrhaging. ABBREVIATIONS AFP = alpha-fetoprotein; CDC = conventional-dose chemotherapy; CMB = cerebral microbleed; CRT = chemoradiotherapy; CSI = craniospinal irradiation; EP = etoposide and cisplatin; GCT = germ cell tumor; HCG = human chorionic gonadotropin; HDC = high-dose chemotherapy; ICE = ifosfamide, cisplatin, and etoposide; NGGCT = nongerminomatous GCT; OS = overall survival; PBSCT = peripheral blood stem cell transplantation; PFS = progression-free survival; RICM = radiation-induced cavernous malformation; STGC = syncytiotrophoblastic giant cell; SWI = susceptibility-weighted imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Noriko Ii
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ise Red Cross Hospital, Ise City, Mie
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Takashi Daimon
- Department of Biostatistics, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya City, Hyogo; and
| | | | - Yoshihito Nomoto
- Radiation Oncology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu City, Mie, Japan
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16
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Kong Z, Wang Y, Dai C, Yao Y, Ma W, Wang Y. Central Nervous System Germ Cell Tumors: A Review of the Literature. J Child Neurol 2018; 33:610-620. [PMID: 29848146 DOI: 10.1177/0883073818772470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Central nervous system germ cell tumors are rare intracranial tumors that mainly occur in pediatrics with substantial variation in the incidence among different regions and genders. Histologically, central nervous system germ cell tumors can be divided into germinomas and nongerminomatous germ cell tumors. The molecular pathology of central nervous system germ cell tumors, particularly germinomas, is mainly based on the presence of isochromosome 12p, gain-of-function of the KIT gene, and a globally low DNA methylation profile. Diagnoses and differential diagnoses are conducted through imaging, tumor marker detection, surgical biopsy, and cerebrospinal fluid cytology. Germinomas are often treated via whole-ventricular radiotherapy or neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with reduced-dose whole-ventricular radiotherapy, whereas nongerminomatous germ cell tumors are mainly treated with chemotherapy, surgical resection, and radiotherapy (individually or in combination), depending on tumor composition. Because the main population of patients is pediatric, extending overall survival and reducing treatment side effects should be the main goals of future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziren Kong
- 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yaning Wang
- 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Congxin Dai
- 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Yao
- 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbin Ma
- 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- 1 Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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17
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Treatment of primary intracranial germ cell tumors: Single center experience with 42 clinically diagnosed cases. Oncotarget 2018; 7:60665-60675. [PMID: 27340779 PMCID: PMC5312410 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective Primary intracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs) are a class of heterogeneous tumors. Surgery can quickly relieve tumor compression and provide histological diagnosis. It is very difficult to treat some patients who are unable to be pathologically diagnosed. We aimed to analyze clinically diagnosed GCTs patients. Methods Patients clinically diagnosed as primary intracranial GCTs were included in this study. Results From 2002 to 2015, 42 patients clinically diagnosed with primary intracranial GCTs received chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Patients were assigned to diagnostic chemotherapy group (25 cases), diagnostic radiotherapy group (5 cases) and gamma knife radiosurgery group (12 cases) based on their initial anti-tumor therapy. The 5-year survival rates were 85.8%, 75.0% and 63.6%, respectively. There were no statistically significant difference (p value = 0.44). Patients were assigned to the group (30 cases) with secretory tumors and the group (12 cases) with non-secretory tumors based on their levels of tumor makers. The 5- year survival rates were 80.7% and 68.6%, respectively. There were no statistically significant difference (p value = 0.49).The major adverse reactions were grade III - IV bone marrow suppression with an incidence of 35.2% and grade II- III nausea/vomiting with an incidence of 45.8%. Conclusion Surgical removal of tumor or biopsy is recognized as the most accurate method to determine the pathological property of tumor. But for some patients who can not be pathologically diagnosed, they can receive comprehensive treatments such as chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy, and some of them can still have good responses.
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Seregni E, Massimino M, Nerini Molteni S, Pallotti F, van der Hiel B, Cefalo G, Spreafico F, Fossati F, Bombardieri E. Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in Intracranial Germ Cell Tumors. Int J Biol Markers 2018; 17:112-8. [PMID: 12113577 DOI: 10.1177/172460080201700206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We report a retrospective study on serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and β-human chorionic gonadotropin (βhCG) determination in a series of 30 patients bearing intracranial germ cell tumors. At diagnosis five patients had high serum and CSF AFP levels. No patient had positive serum AFP and negative CSF AFP or vice versa. Twelve of 30 patients had serum βhCG levels above 5 mIU/mL, eight had high βhCG only in CSF, and ten were completely negative. During treatment and follow-up both markers were accurate indicators of the response to therapy, decreasing rapidly and often becoming normal already after the first phase of treatment. We conclude that these two markers, and mostly βhCG, may be useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of the response to therapy of patients with intracranial germ cell tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Seregni
- RIA Laboratory, Nuclear Medicine Division, Istituto Nazionale per la Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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Nagasawa DT, Lagman C, Sun M, Yew A, Chung LK, Lee SJ, Bui TT, Ooi YC, Robison RA, Zada G, Yang I. Pineal germ cell tumors: Two cases with review of histopathologies and biomarkers. J Clin Neurosci 2017; 38:23-31. [PMID: 28189312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2016.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Pineal germ cell tumors (GCTs) are primarily seen in pediatric and Asian populations. These tumors are divided into germinomatous and non-germinomatous GCTs (NGGCTs). GCTs are thought to arise by misplacement of totipotent stem cells en route to gonads during embryogenesis. Intracranial GCTs display an affinity to develop along the pineal-suprasellar axis and have variable manifestations dependent upon the location of the tumor. Management and outcomes are driven by histopathologies. In this study, we highlight two cases of pineal GCTs and present a review of the literature with an emphasis on histopathologies and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel T Nagasawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Carlito Lagman
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Michael Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Andrew Yew
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Lawrance K Chung
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Seung J Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Timothy T Bui
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Yinn Cher Ooi
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - R Aaron Robison
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Gabriel Zada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Isaac Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Radiation Oncology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Head and Neck Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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20
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Luo Z, Qian Z, Yang K, Liu H, Zhang W, Zeng Y. Primary Germinoma Originating from the Insular Lobe: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. World Neurosurg 2016; 98:871.e1-871.e7. [PMID: 28007604 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary intracranial germinomas occurring in the cerebral hemisphere are extremely rare, with only a few reported cases in the literature. We describe an unusual case of a primary germinoma that developed in the insular lobe, with little involvement in the basal frontal lobe. CASE DESCRIPTION A 19-year-old man presented with headache and vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a solitary, ring-like enhanced lesion in the left hemisphere, and a preliminary diagnosis of glioma was made. Surgery was performed, and the diagnosis of germinoma was made based on the histopathologic results. CONCLUSIONS The causes of ectopic germinomas of the midline structures of the brain are still unclear, but the theory of misplacement may partially clarify this phenomenon. Reflecting a lack of definitive management guidelines for atypical germinoma, the present patient was treated with focal radiotherapy around the lesion after surgery and achieved remission by 34 months postoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxiang Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, NanJing Brain Hospital affiliated with NanJing Medical University, NanJing, China
| | - Zhongrun Qian
- Department of Neurosurgery, NanJing Brain Hospital affiliated with NanJing Medical University, NanJing, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, NanJing Brain Hospital affiliated with NanJing Medical University, NanJing, China
| | - Hongyi Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, NanJing Brain Hospital affiliated with NanJing Medical University, NanJing, China.
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, NanJing Brain Hospital affiliated with NanJing Medical University, NanJing, China.
| | - Yanjun Zeng
- Biomechanics and Medical Information Institute, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
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Sonabend AM, Bowden S, Bruce JN. Microsurgical resection of pineal region tumors. J Neurooncol 2016; 130:351-366. [PMID: 27193692 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-016-2138-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The extensive variety of possible histologic subtypes makes it imperative to establish a tissue diagnosis in patients with pineal region tumors. Management decisions regarding adjuvant therapy, prognosis, and follow-up strategies vary with the histologic diagnosis. Specialized surgical and stereotactic techniques have evolved to provide the neurosurgeon with an array of safe and effective options for obtaining a tissue diagnosis. Advanced microsurgical techniques combined with improved preoperative management and postoperative critical care methods have made aggressive surgical resection a mainstay of management. Aggressive surgical resection has resulted in excellent long-term prognoses for nearly all patients with benign tumors and a large percentage of patients with malignant tumors. However, pineal region surgery remains fraught with potential pitfalls, and these favorable results are dependent on an advanced level of surgical expertise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Sonabend
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen Bowden
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey N Bruce
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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22
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Han JW, Koh KN, Kim JY, Baek HJ, Lee JW, Shim KW, Cho J, Kim DS. Current Trends in Management for Central Nervous System Germ Cell Tumor. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY-ONCOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.15264/cpho.2016.23.1.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jung Woo Han
- Division of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei University Health System
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University Health System
| | - Kyung-Nam Koh
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Ulsan College of Medicine & Asan Medical Center, Seoul
| | - Ji Yoon Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu
| | - Hee Jo Baek
- Department of Pediatrics, Chonnam National University Medical School, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Gwangju
| | - Ji Won Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine
| | - Kyu-Won Shim
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System
| | - Jaeho Cho
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong-Seok Kim
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System
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Yoon JY, Park BK, Yoo H, Lee SH, Hong EK, Park WS, Kwon YJ, Yoon JH, Park HJ. A Case of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Manifested as a Suprasellar Mass. Brain Tumor Res Treat 2016; 4:26-9. [PMID: 27195259 PMCID: PMC4868814 DOI: 10.14791/btrt.2016.4.1.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) has diverse clinical manifestations, including intracranial mass lesions. We report a case of LCH that manifested as a suprasellar mass, and initially misdiagnosed as a germ cell tumor. A 29-year-old woman presented with polyuria, polydipsia and amenorrhea. Laboratory findings revealed hypopituitarism with central diabetes insipidus, and a suprasellar mass and a pineal mass were observed on magnetic resonance imaging. Under the clinical impression of a germ cell tumor, the patient was treated with germ cell tumor chemotherapy (cisplatin and etoposide) and radiation therapy without biopsy. After initial shrinkage of the lesions, further growth of the tumor was observed and a biopsy was performed. The histopathology revealed LCH. After chemotherapy according to the LCH III protocol, the tumor disappeared. She is on regular follow up for 5 years without relapse. The present findings indicate that LCH should be included in the differential diagnosis of a suprasellar mass, even in adults, especially when it manifests with diabetes insipidus. This case also underscores the importance of a histopathologic diagnosis in patients with suprasellar tumors before the initiation of a specific therapy, even if the clinical findings are highly suggestive of a specific diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Young Yoon
- Center for Pediatric Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Byung-Kiu Park
- Center for Pediatric Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Heon Yoo
- Neuro-Oncology Clinic, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Sang Hyun Lee
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Eun Kyung Hong
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Weon Seo Park
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Young Joo Kwon
- Center for Pediatric Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jong Hyung Yoon
- Center for Pediatric Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Hyeon Jin Park
- Center for Pediatric Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
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24
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The pathogenesis of intracranial growing teratoma syndrome: proliferation of tumor cells or formation of multiple expanding cysts? Two case reports and review of the literature. Childs Nerv Syst 2014; 30:1455-61. [PMID: 24633581 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-014-2396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) is a rare clinical phenomenon defined as the paradoxical growth of mature teratoma components during or after chemotherapy. The mechanism of this phenomenon is not well understood. We present two cases of pineal mixed germ cell tumors that exhibited the similar course to GTS and speculate its pathogenesis. CASE REPORT The first case was accompanied by slightly elevated alpha-fetoprotein (8.8 ng/ml; normal <6.6 ng/ml). The tumor rapidly grew from 1.5 to 2.7 cm in diameter within 4 weeks. Despite this rapid preoperative growth, thorough pathological investigation found only mature teratoma components along with multiple micro- and macro-cysts. The other case was diagnosed as a pure germinoma based on biopsy and serological examinations. During three courses of chemotherapy, this tumor presented a honeycomb-like appearance on magnetic resonance (MR) images and an exceptionally rapid enlargement. Second-look surgery confirmed the histological diagnosis of a mature teratoma. In both cases, meticulous pathological examination of all whole tumor sections revealed no malignant histological features, and the MIB-1 labeling indices were too low to account for the extremely rapid tumor growth. Instead, both MR images and histological findings demonstrated a predominant formation of multiple cysts. CONCLUSION We speculate that this paradoxical growth might not be tumorous proliferation but instead the formation and expansion of multiple cysts inside mature teratoma components and that the presence or absence of growth might be a subsidiary phenomenon. Our hypothesis appears consistent with the characteristic radiological findings of GTS reported in the literature.
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Yip CM, Tseng HH, Hsu SS, Liao WC, Chen JY, Chen CH, Chang CY. Dyspnea and choking as presenting symptoms in primary medulla oblongata germinoma. Surg Neurol Int 2014; 5:S170-4. [PMID: 25071942 PMCID: PMC4109171 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.134815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The medulla oblongata is the lower half of the brainstem. It contains the cardiac, respiratory, vomiting, and vasomotor centers and deals with autonomic functions such as breathing, heartbeat, and blood pressure. Primary medulla oblongata germinoma is very rare and less than 20 cases have been reported in the English literature. CASE DESCRIPTION A 22-year-old female without any particular past medical history presented to us in October 2012 with the chief complaint of dyspnea and frequent choking for 1 month. Neurological examination revealed lower cranial nerve palsies and nystagmus. Her brain computed tomography (CT) and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a mass lesion at the dorsal surface of medulla oblongata with extension into the inferior fourth ventricle and foramen magnum. She underwent bilateral suboccipital craniotomy and C1 laminoplasty with the grossly total resection of the tumor. The histological examination of the tumor proved germinoma. Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy was arranged. The latest brain MRI and whole spine MRI done 1 year after surgery showed neither residual nor recurrent tumor in the whole axis. She is regularly followed-up at our outpatient department and is doing well except having left vocal cord palsy, which occurred before surgery. CONCLUSION Medulloblastoma, ependymoma, glioma, hemangioblastoma, and cavernous angioma are common intraaxial tumors in the medulla oblongata and fourth ventricle. Intracranial germ cell tumors originate from extragonadal seminal cells and have been found in 0.4-3.4% of patients with primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors in Western countries, while the incidence is reported to be 5-8 times greater in Japan and the Far East. Although germinoma of medulla oblongata is rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively, it should be included in the differential diagnosis of medulla masses with fourth ventricle extension, especially in Asian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Man Yip
- Division of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Hui-Hwa Tseng
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Shu-Shong Hsu
- Division of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Wei-Chuan Liao
- Division of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Jun-Yih Chen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Chih-Hao Chen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Chia-Yuan Chang
- Division of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R. O. C
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Long-term follow-up and quality of life in patients with intracranial germinoma. Neurosurg Rev 2014; 37:445-50; discussion 451. [PMID: 24715277 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-014-0544-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Revised: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Intracranial germinomas are fairly rare tumors occurring mostly in children or young adults with a comparatively good prognosis. Radiation is the preferred treatment of choice for this diagnosis. It has been thoroughly studied to what extent radiation doses and fields can be limited in order to avoid side effects in these young patients. The role of chemotherapy remains unclear, whereas surgery is limited to biopsy for proof of histology. Regarding the good overall survival rate, quality of life is a significant aspect to consider in these patients. We present a single institution analysis of patients with intracranial germinoma and analyze the long-term outcome with special regard to quality of life. Thirty-three patients with intracranial germinomas were analyzed by chart review, telephone interview, and neurological assessment. Additionally, a survey on quality of life was performed. The 10-year overall survival rate was 82.1 % at a mean follow-up of 141 (22-306) months. Three quarters (76 %) of the patients reached a favorable neurological outcome on the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS 0-2). However, the self-reported quality of life was significantly worse in germinoma patients compared with a healthy control group (p < 0.001). Surgical resection of the tumor led to no improvement regarding overall survival, neurological outcome, and quality of life. In terms of cognitive functioning, patients with tumor resection were significantly more impaired than biopsied patients (p = 0.04). Although germinomas are efficiently treatable tumors, the restrictions in quality of life in these often young patients are considerable, including financial difficulties. There seems no justification for tumor resection in newly diagnosed cases suspicious for germinoma as the cognitive outcome is worse than in biopsied patients, and there is no effect on overall survival.
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27
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Saito R, Kumabe T, Kanamori M, Sonoda Y, Watanabe M, Mugikura S, Takahashi S, Tominaga T. Early response to chemotherapy as an indicator for the management of germinoma-like tumors of the pineal and/or suprasellar regions. J Clin Neurosci 2013; 21:124-30. [PMID: 24238633 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2013.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in diagnostic imaging and experience with germinomas may allow for the differentiation of central nervous system germinomas from other tumors based on clinical information, without histological verification. We retrospectively analyzed clinically diagnosed germinoma-like tumors of the pineal and/or suprasellar regions. This was done to evaluate the efficacy of our strategy of defining germinoma-compatible tumors based on good responses to initial chemotherapy. The responses to chemotherapy and survival of 34 consecutive patients with germinoma-like tumors who underwent initial treatment from July 2001 to October 2010 were analyzed. The minimum apparent diffusion coefficient (minADC) value and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) were evaluated in recent patients. Twelve patients with histologically verified germinomas and 18 with germinoma-compatible tumors showed early logarithmic decreases in tumor volume in response to initial chemotherapy, typical low minADC values and typical MRS characteristics, including increased choline/creatine ratios, decreased N-acetylasparate/creatine ratios, and large lipid peaks. These patients had good progression-free survival. The other four patients, with histologically verified non-germinomas, showed no response to chemotherapy, and one patient with a pineoblastoma showed a similar minADC value and MRS characteristics to those of patients with germinomas. The response to initial chemotherapy can be used to distinguish germinoma-compatible tumors from non-germinoma in patients with germinoma-like tumors of the pineal and/or suprasellar regions. The evaluation of minADC and proton MRS are useful for distinguishing germinomas from other tumors. However, a subset of non-germinomas may show similar characteristics to germinomas. The benefit of bypassing unnecessary surgical intervention can be achieved, at least in Asian populations with a high incidence of germinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuta Saito
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kumabe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Kanamori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yukihiko Sonoda
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Mika Watanabe
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shunji Mugikura
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shoki Takahashi
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Teiji Tominaga
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Nishikawa R. Resection of PCNSL, if safely possible, seems to be better than biopsy: challenging a paradigm? Neuro Oncol 2013; 14:1423. [PMID: 23155110 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nos293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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29
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Bromberg JEC, Baumert BG, de Vos F, Gijtenbeek JMM, Kurt E, Westermann AM, Wesseling P. Primary intracranial germ-cell tumors in adults: a practical review. J Neurooncol 2013; 113:175-83. [PMID: 23526409 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-013-1114-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Primary intracranial germ-cell tumors are rare tumors primarily of adolescence, and literature on this disease in adults is scarce. The available evidence on intracranial germ-cell tumors is reviewed with a focus on adult patients whenever possible, and used to make suggestions for diagnosis and treatment. Diagnostic and treatment algorithms were developed to provide an evidence-based backbone to base treatment on in adult patients with a (suspected) primary intracranial germ-cell tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacoline E C Bromberg
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center, Erasmus University Medical Center, P O Box 5201, 3008 AE, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Treatment strategy for intracranial primary pure germinoma. Childs Nerv Syst 2013; 29:239-48. [PMID: 22965772 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-012-1902-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/25/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT This prospective randomized clinical study will address the efficacy of radiation (RT)-alone and combined with pre-RT chemotherapy (CTX) treatments and propose the novel standard treatment strategy for intracranial primary pure germinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between 2005 and 2008, there were 54 patients diagnosed with intracranial primary pure germinomas in a single institute. Twenty-eight patients were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 16.2 years (range 6-31 years). There were 19 men and 9 women (men/women ratio = 2.1:1). There were 21 patients with solitary tumors and 7 with multiple tumors. These patients were randomized as RT-only treatment group (11 solitary and 3 multiple tumors) and combined (10 solitary and 4 multiple tumors, neo-adjuvant CTX followed by response-adapted RT) treatment group. The follow-up period for RT only group has a median of 58 months (mean 58.2 months, range 41-82 months), and for combine therapy group, the median was 68.5 months (mean 67.8 months, range 41-88 months). All 14 patients in the RT-only group showed complete response (CR) and no recurrence. Eleven patients in the combined group had CR and three patients had partial response after neo-adjuvant CTX. All patients responded to RT as CR without recurrence. At the time of analysis, all 28 patients were alive without evidence of disease. CONCLUSION Neo-adjuvant CTX for localized germinomas seems to be unnecessary as a method to reduce radiation dose in our RT protocol. However, the effective control of multifocal or disseminated germinoma can be achieved by neo-adjuvant CTX followed by response-adapted reduced dose RT.
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Sugiyama K, Arita K, Tominaga A, Hanaya R, Taniguchi E, Okamura T, Itoh Y, Yamasaki F, Kurisu K. Morphologic features of human chorionic gonadotropin- or alpha-fetoprotein-producing germ cell tumors of the central nervous system: histological heterogeneity and surgical meaning. Brain Tumor Pathol 2012; 18:115-22. [PMID: 11908867 DOI: 10.1007/bf02479424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Our study of germ cell tumors (GCT) of the central nervous system (CNS) investigated the relationship between tumor histology and patient serum titers of human chorionic gonadotropin (HGC) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Thirty-five patients were enrolled. Their serum titers of HCG (mlU/ml) and/or AFP (ng/ml) before initial treatment were available, as were tumor specimens obtained before the administration of adjuvant therapy. They were divided into three groups, depending on whether HCG alone (group H), AFP alone (group A), or both HCG and AFP (group HA) were detected. Each group was subdivided into three groups: patients in group I had H, A, and/or HA titers below 9.9; patients in group II/III had titers from 10.0 to 999; and those in group IV had titers of 1000 or more. Serial sections of tissue specimens were repeatedly stained, mainly with hematoxylin and eosin (H-E) stain, HCG immunostain, and AFP immunostain. There were seven patients in the H-I group and five in H-II/III. Of these 12 patients, 11 had germinomas (G) and one had an embryonal carcinoma (EC). Five patients were included in group A: one was classified as A-II/III and had a germinoma, and the remaining four patients were in A-IV and had yolk sac tumors (YST) or mixed GCT consisting mainly of YST or EC (MXGCT-YST, EC). The HA group consisted of 18 patients. Three were classified as HA-I and had germinomas; nine HA-II/III patients had T or MXGCT-T; and six HA-IV patients had choriocarcinoma (CC), YST, MXGCT-CC, or MXGCT-YST. Throughout the study, the situations for the elevated serum titers could be elucidated in only four cases (three in group A-IV and one in group HA-IV). These results led to the conclusion that serologic evaluation is superior to morphologic evaluation in diagnosing marker-producing GCTs. From a diagnostic perspective, the role of surgery is to verify the HCG- and AFP-immunonegative tissue in patients with G, T, and EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sugiyama
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hiroshima University Medical Hospital, Japan.
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Chibbaro S, Di Rocco F, Makiese O, Reiss A, Poczos P, Mirone G, Servadei F, George B, Crafa P, Polivka M, Romano A. Neuroendoscopic management of posterior third ventricle and pineal region tumors: technique, limitation, and possible complication avoidance. Neurosurg Rev 2012; 35:331-38; discussion 338-40. [PMID: 22258494 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-011-0370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2011] [Revised: 08/03/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Chibbaro
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lariboisiere University Hospital, Paris, France.
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Pollack IF. Surgical options for pineal region tumors. World Neurosurg 2011; 77:302-3. [PMID: 22120360 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2011.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Accepted: 06/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian F Pollack
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
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Behari S, Jaiswal S, Nair P, Garg P, Jaiswal AK. Tumors of the posterior third ventricular region in pediatric patients: The Indian perspective and a review of literature. J Pediatr Neurosci 2011; 6:S56-71. [PMID: 22069432 PMCID: PMC3208926 DOI: 10.4103/1817-1745.85713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Diverse tumors in the posterior third ventricular region (TPTVR) frequently occur in children. A decade's experience with pediatric TPTVR is presented, focusing on the Indian perspective. Materials and Methods: 25 children (age range: 3-18 years; mean age: 13.32 years; presentation range: 7 days-2.5 years) had clinico-radiological assessment with contrast computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The ventricular/lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) alpha feto protein (AFP)/beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) estimation was done when radiological suspicion of a germ cell tumor was present. Extent of resection was deemed partial when some tumor mass remained at the end of surgery, near total when <10% was retained over vital neurovascular structures, and total when complete resection was attained. Results: Operations included infratentorial supracerebellar approach (n = 12), occipito-transtentorial approach (n = 2), endoscopic biopsy and third ventriculostomy (n = 1), frontal parasagittal craniotomy, interhemispheric transcallosal subchoroidal approach (n = 2), middle temporal gyrus transcortical transventricular approach (n = 1), fronto-temporo-zygomatic combined transylvian and subtemporal approach (n = 1) and right ventriculoperitoneal shunt and stereotactic biopsy (n = 1). Only CSF diversion was performed for five patients with a small TPTVR. CSF diversion was required in 12 (48%) patients. Tumor pathology included pinealoblastoma (n = 4; one with pineocytic differentiation), nongerminomatous germ cell tumor (NGGCT; n = 3), germinoma (n = 3), pilocytic astrocytoma (n = 2), epidermoid (n = 3) and primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET), fibrillary astrocytoma, glioblastoma, teratoma, and meningioma (n = 1, respectively). A patient with neurocysticercosis was diagnosed solely on MRI (four did not undergo biopsy). Fractionated radiotherapy was administered in 13 patients with primary pineal tumors, PNET, NGGCT, fibrillary astrocytoma and glioblastoma. Extent of excision was total in 10 (40%), near total in 5 (20%), partial in 3 (12%) and a biopsy in 2 (8%) patients. Conclusions: Histopathologic characterization of TPTVR is essential prior to their further management. Benign lesions often have a good prognosis following gross total surgical resection. Pure germinomas are highly susceptible to radiotherapy. NGGCTs often have malignant components that require adjuvant therapy following surgery. The advancements in microsurgical techniques have led to gratifying perioperative results in these deep-seated lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Behari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Chen YW, Huang PI, Ho DMT, Hu YW, Chang KP, Chiou SH, Guo WY, Chang FC, Liang ML, Lee YY, Chen HH, Hsu TR, Lin SC, Wong TT, Yen SH. Change in treatment strategy for intracranial germinoma: long-term follow-up experience at a single institute. Cancer 2011; 118:2752-62. [PMID: 21989828 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.26564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2011] [Revised: 08/08/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous intracranial germinoma (IG) studies have investigated the effect of different radiotherapy (RT) volumes and the necessity for adjunctive chemotherapy, but there is currently no consensus on the best treatment for this tumor. METHODS From January 1989 to December 2009, 80 IG patients (≤20 years old) were treated with various RT regimens. Of them, 14 patients had craniospinal irradiation (CSI) + primary boost (PB); 8 patients had whole-brain irradiation (WBI) + PB; 31 patients had whole ventricular irradiation (WVI) + PB; and 27 patients had focal RT only. Twenty-nine patients (36.2%) also received systemic chemotherapy (CHT). Survival was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and variables affecting survival were analyzed by the Cox proportional hazard model. RESULTS Eleven patients (13.8%) developed local recurrence or dissemination after treatment, and 10 of these patients were in the focal RT group. The 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS) for the CSI, WBI, WVI, and focal RT patients were 100%, 85.7%, 100%, and 84.6%, respectively (P = .001). The 5-year overall survival (OS) for CSI, WBI, WVI, and focal RT patients was 100%, 83.3%, 100%, and 87.9%, respectively (P = .125). Focal irradiation (P = .02) and initial use of CHT (P = .021) were negatively associated with RFS. CONCLUSIONS Focal RT plus CHT were associated with inferior control of IG and a higher incidence of CHT-related toxicities. Adjustment of the radiation volume to the whole ventricular system without CHT is sufficient for treatment of nondisseminated IGs, even with lower primary RT doses (<36 Gy).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Wei Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Terasaka S, Kawabori M, Kobayashi H, Murata J, Kanno H, Tanaka S, Houkin K. Neurohypophyseal germinoma with abundant fibrous tissue. Brain Tumor Pathol 2011; 29:58-62. [PMID: 21918862 DOI: 10.1007/s10014-011-0063-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We report an unusual case of neurohypophyseal germinoma with abundant fibrous tissue and clival invasion that was initially misdiagnosed as lymphocytic hypophysitis. A 40-year-old woman presented with diabetes insipidus and panhypopituitarism after delivering her second son and which lasted for 4 years. Magnetic resonance imaging showed the intrasellar mass extending to the suprasellar region with enlarged pituitary stalk. The mass was heterogeneously enhanced and invaded the clivus. Biopsy of the intrasellar mass was performed via the trans-sphenoidal route, and histological examination revealed marked fibrous tissue and infiltration of lymphocytes, with no evidence of tumor cells. Lymphocytic hypophysitis was the initial diagnosis, and corticosteroid therapy was begun. Despite intensive treatment, the lesion enlarged and clinical symptoms worsened 2 weeks after surgery. Subtotal removal of the mass was performed, and a second histological examination revealed typical findings of the germinoma. Subsequently, the patient underwent chemoradiotherapy, and complete remission was achieved. Histological diagnosis is sometimes incorrect in fibrous tumors at the sellar region, and biopsy from several points is strongly recommended for this entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Terasaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North 15 West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
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Jackson C, Jallo G, Lim M. Clinical Outcomes after Treatment of Germ Cell Tumors. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2011; 22:385-94, viii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2011.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Bourekas EC, Slone HW, Ray-Chaudhury A. Masses of the Sellar and Junxtasellar Region. IMAGING OF BRAIN TUMORS WITH HISTOLOGICAL CORRELATIONS 2011:325-371. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-87650-2_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/19/2023]
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Cuccia V, Alderete D. Suprasellar/pineal bifocal germ cell tumors. Childs Nerv Syst 2010; 26:1043-9. [PMID: 20221609 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-010-1120-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2010] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT) arise from embryonal rests of germinal cells. The aim of this report is to analyze a small group of GCT located simultaneously in the suprasellar and pineal regions without seeding either between both tumors or to other places. We named this group as suprasellar/pineal bifocal germ cell tumors (SPBT). METHODS A retrospective review of a series of 25 GCT showed a) 16 cases of unifocal non-disseminated pineal or sellar GCT, b) one case of unifocal disseminated pineal GCT, c) three cases with suprasellar and pineal double tumors with dissemination, and d) five cases with SPBT. The analysis is focused on the latter group. RESULTS The series includes four pure germinomas and one germinal non-germinoma. MRI and endoscopic exploration were necessary to define SPBT. Endocrine, ocular, and increased intracranial pressure syndromes were identified and related to the size of the tumors. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were performed in all SPBT. Radical or partial resection of SPBT offered no benefits over biopsy. Prognosis for bifocal groups was similar to unifocal tumors of the same histological type. Complete remission without recurrence and mortality were achieved in all cases. CONCLUSIONS SPBT seem to be an entity defined by a) one tumor in the suprasellar and another in the pineal region, b) GCT with predominance of PG, but not exclusively, and c) MRI and endoscopy without any dissemination. The presence of two tumors does not indicate dissemination; SPBT were non-disseminated but focal tumors, and spinal radiotherapy was not necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Cuccia
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría Prof Dr Juan P Garrahan, Combate de los Pozos 1881, 1245 Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Pathological features of intracranial germinomas with reference to fibrous tissue and granulomatous change. Brain Tumor Pathol 2009; 22:9-13. [PMID: 18095098 DOI: 10.1007/s10014-004-0171-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2004] [Accepted: 11/24/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Intracranial germinomas are accompanied occasionally by a significant granulomatous change and abundant fibrous tissue, and this has made their pathological diagnosis difficult. However, the incidence of the granulomatous reaction and the presence of fibrous tissue together with their clinical characteristics in intracranial germinomas have not been fully investigated. Twenty-four germinomas, none of which had received preoperative treatment, were clinicopathologically examined. The location of the tumor was the pineal region (5 cases), the suprasellar region (13 cases), multiple lesions (2 cases), the basal ganglia region (1 case), and other regions (3 cases). Histologically, the germinomas could be divided into two types: (1) type A (18 cases) consisted mainly of large neoplastic cells and small lymphocytes, showing a two-cell pattern; (2) type B (6 cases) consisted predominantly of fibroinflammatory tissues containing occasional neoplastic cells (5/6 cases) and, rarely, neoplastic cells (1/6 cases). Perioperatively, two-cell-pattern germinomas (type A) were characterized as soft tumors and fibroinflammatory germinomas (type B) as hard tumors. Thus, the fibroinflammatory type B accounted for 25% of the intracranial germinomas. Although there were no topographical and clinical differences between the two types, we conclude that immunohistological studies to detect neoplastic germ cells are warranted in cases of small stereotactic biopsies of hard type B tumors.
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Kong DS, Nam DH, Lee JI, Park K, Kim JH, Shin HJ. Intracranial growing teratoma syndrome mimicking tumor relapse: a diagnostic dilemma. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2009; 3:392-6. [PMID: 19409018 DOI: 10.3171/2009.1.peds0857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT It is important to differentiate growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) from tumor recurrence in the setting of an enlarging residual mass present after treatment of intracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs). The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of intracranial GTS and present its clinical manifestations in detail. METHODS The authors performed a retrospective cohort study of 52 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed intracranial GCTs who presented between January 2000 and December 2006. The records were screened to identify a study cohort in which all patients had regrowing tumor mass despite normalization of tumor markers during or after treatment of GCTs. RESULTS In 6 (11.5%) of 52 patients the pathological diagnosis was GTS. The median patient age at diagnosis was 14.5 years (range 2 months-17 years), and the primary tumors included 4 mixed GCTs and 2 immature teratomas. After second-look surgery, histological testing revealed the lesions to be mature teratoma in all patients. Three of 6 patients subsequently underwent radiation therapy and 1 patient received additional chemotherapy for spinal seeding. CONCLUSIONS In enlarging residual masses after treatment of intracranial GCTs, GTS should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of tumor recurrence especially if there is a radiographic mismatch with serum marker test results. If technically feasible, second-look surgery may be necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doo-Sik Kong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Spinal intradural primary germ cell tumour--review of literature and case report. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2009; 151:277-84. [PMID: 19240975 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-009-0200-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2007] [Accepted: 10/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary spinal cord germ cell tumour is a rare tumour. We herein review the tumour characteristics, associated risk factors, treatment policy, and patterns of failure of primary intradural germ cell tumour. METHOD We conducted a PUBMED search using a combination of keywords such as "spinal germ cell tumor," "germinoma," "extradural," "intradural," "intramedullary," "extramedullary," and identified 19 cases of primary spinal germ cell tumour. Clinical features, pathologic characteristics, and treatment details of these patients including status at follow-up were noted from respective case reports. We also describe a case of a young Indian patient of intradural extramedullary germ cell tumour treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. FINDINGS The median age at presentation was 24 years. The most common location of the tumour was thoracic (40%). Beta-HCG overproduction was noted in 40% of the patients. Most patients were treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic chemotherapy. Median follow-up was 16.5 months. Recurrence was observed in 10% of the patients, all in beta-HCG over-producing tumours. The illustrative case was a 28-year male, presenting with pain in lower back and both lower limbs for 2 months. Magnetic resonance imaging spine showed an inhomogeneous hyperintense soft tissue mass at L(2)-L(4) spinal level. He was treated with complete surgical excision and four cycles of chemotherapy with BEP regimen following a histological diagnosis of non-seminomatous germ cell tumour. Palliative irradiation to the lumbar spine was given on progression at 3 months. The patient eventually succumbed to his condition, due to compressive transverse myelitis possibly due to cervical cord metastasis. CONCLUSION Limited surgery followed by upfront radiation therapy and adjuvant chemotherapy is the optimal management of this rare group of tumour. Omission of radiation therapy from the treatment armamentarium might engender local recurrence and spinal dissemination at first failure.
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Yang DT, Rozen WM, Rickert CH, Lo PA. Primary pontomedullary germinoma in a 12 year old boy. J Clin Neurosci 2009; 16:321-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2007.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2007] [Accepted: 08/21/2007] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Hadziahmetovic M, Clarke JW, Cavaliere R, Mayr NA, Montebello JF, Grecula JC, Newton HB, Chang EL, Lo SS. CNS germinomas: what is the best treatment strategy? Expert Rev Neurother 2008; 8:1527-36. [PMID: 18928345 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.8.10.1527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
CNS germ cell tumors are rare primary brain malignancies. Germinomas comprise approximately two-thirds of CNS germ cell tumors. Owing to their radiosensitivity, radiotherapy has been used to treat patients with CNS germinomas, with favorable treatment outcomes. Historically, craniospinal irradiation has been used. Given the concerns over long-term toxicities associated with craniospinal irradiation, reduced volume radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy has been employed. Data on the use of different strategies in the treatment of CNS germinomas are emerging but a standard strategy has not been established. This article reviews the different strategies used in the management of CNS germinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mersiha Hadziahmetovic
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Trauma Center, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-1178, USA.
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Kanamori M, Kumabe T, Tominaga T. Is histological diagnosis necessary to start treatment for germ cell tumours in the pineal region? J Clin Neurosci 2008; 15:978-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2007.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2007] [Revised: 08/05/2007] [Accepted: 08/07/2007] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Kamoshima Y, Sawamura Y, Ikeda J, Shirato H, Aoyama H. Late recurrence and salvage therapy of CNS germinomas. J Neurooncol 2008; 90:205-11. [PMID: 18604473 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-008-9649-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2007] [Accepted: 06/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) germinoma is a curable tumor and its recurrence rate after initial therapy may be approximately 10% or higher. This study elucidates the time-course of recurrence and results of salvage therapy. Twenty-five patients with recurrent germinoma treated at Hokkaido University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. The median age at initial treatment was 12 years (range: 8-37). All patients had been tumor-free for at least 6 months after the initial treatment. The median follow-up period was 134 months (range: 44-338). The median age at first recurrence was 18 years and the median time to the first recurrence was 50 months. Among the patients, 9 (36%) had the first recurrence at 60 months or later. The latest recurrence in a patient occurred 230 months after the initial treatment. The results of salvage therapy were estimated in all 25 patients. Seventeen patients (68%) were salvaged and were tumor-free at the final observation. The remaining 8 patients died of disease. At first recurrence, 11 patients were treated using radiation therapy with or without surgery and 7 out of the 11 patients died due to the recurrent tumor. On the other hand, 13 patients who received salvage chemotherapy and radiotherapy were tumor-free at the last follow-up. In conclusion, late recurrence is not a rare event in patients with CNS germinoma. To identify a true cure rate of this disease, a 10-year or longer observation period may be required. As a salvage therapy, platinum-based chemotherapy followed by wide-field low-dose radiation therapy appears to be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuuta Kamoshima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hokkaido University Hospital, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan.
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