Management of testicular germ cell tumors

Clin Adv Hematol Oncol. 2023 Apr;21(4):179-188.

Abstract

Over the past half century, advancements in treatment have led to cures in an overwhelming majority of patients with testicular germ cell tumors. Astute clinical decision-making, informed by the abundant data from published clinical trials, is essential for achieving a cure whenever possible and minimizing the toxicity of treatment. Important remaining challenges include reducing the risk of secondary malignancies and other late effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and developing curative treatments for patients with cancer that is refractory to current therapies. This article reviews the current treatment landscape and highlights recent discoveries in diagnosis and staging, emerging biomarkers for disease, and treatment for relapsed/refractory disease. Treatment algorithms for testis cancer are complex and clinicians should apply them carefully, not only to optimize shortterm, disease-related outcomes, but also to maximize long-term survival and quality of life.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal* / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal* / etiology
  • Quality of Life
  • Testicular Neoplasms* / pathology

Supplementary concepts

  • Testicular Germ Cell Tumor