Pineal germ cell tumors: Two cases with review of histopathologies and biomarkers

J Clin Neurosci. 2017 Apr:38:23-31. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2016.12.024. Epub 2017 Feb 8.

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.

Keywords: Germ cell tumor; Germinoma; Intracranial neoplasms; Pathology; Yolk sac tumor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomarkers, Tumor*
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Germinoma / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pineal Gland / pathology*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor