What is the tumor marker for endodermal sinus tumor?
Endodermal sinus tumor (yolk sac tumor). A diagnosis of endodermal sinus tumor can be confirmed prior to surgery by detecting elevated levels of serum AFP. Serial serum AFP measurements can be used to follow treatment. Women with endodermal sinus tumors are treated with surgery and cisplatin-based chemotherapy.
Is yolk sac and endodermal sinus tumor the same?
Yolk sac tumors (also known as endodermal sinus tumors) are malignant primitive germ cell tumors; they are histologically similar to the mesenchyma of the primitive yolk sac. Yolk sac tumors can be found in a pure form or mixed with other germ cell tumors.
What is the most common type of malignant ovarian germ cell tumor?
Dysgerminoma, the most common malignant germ cell tumor, usually manifests as a solid mass. Immature teratomas manifest as a solid mass with scattered foci of fat and calcifications.
Why is it called yolk sac tumor?
What Is a Yolk Sac or Germ Cell Tumor? A yolk sac tumor is a rare, malignant tumor of cells that line the yolk sac of the embryo. These cells normally become ovaries or testes; however, the cause of a yolk sac tumor is unknown.
How are germ cell tumors diagnosed?
In addition to a physical examination, the following tests may be used to diagnose a germ cell tumor:
- Biopsy. A biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue for examination under a microscope.
- Blood tests. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
- Ultrasound.
- Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Are germ cell tumors malignant?
Germ cell tumors may be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). Although germ cells are usually in the reproductive organs, these cells can sometimes travel to other parts of the body and cause tumors, called extragonadal germ cell tumors.
How do you know if a tumor is benign or malignant?
A benign tumor has distinct, smooth, regular borders. A malignant tumor has irregular borders and grows faster than a benign tumor. A malignant tumor can also spread to other parts of your body. A benign tumor can become quite large, but it will not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of your body.
Which tumor is considered a germ cell tumor?
The most common types of germ cell tumors include: Teratomas. Teratomas contain cells from the three germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. Teratomas can be malignant or benign, depending on the maturity and other types of cells that may be involved.