Germ Cell Tumors (GCTs) and Teratoma

Germ cell tumors are growths of cells that form from reproductive cells. The tumors may be cancerous or not cancerous. Most germ cell tumors occur in the testicles or the ovaries.

Some germ cell tumors occur in other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, brain and chest, though it's not clear why. Germ cell tumors that occur in places other than the testicles and ovaries (extragonadal germ cell tumors) are very rare.

Treatment options for germ cell tumors may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy with drugs that kill cancer cells and radiation therapy with powerful energy beams.

Teratoma

Teratomas are rare tumors that may hold different types of tissue such as bone, teeth, muscle, and hair. They’re mostly found in the ovaries, testicles, and tailbone, but also sometimes grow in the nervous system and abdomen.

A teratoma may be cancerous or benign, depending on its structure. Scientists have long regarded them as puzzling. Some believe they may be the clue to understanding cancer.

Types of Teratoma

Not all types of teratoma are cancerous. Immature teratomas are more likely to become cancerous. Mature teratomas tend to be benign, or non-cancerous.

Mature teratomas can present in different ways. They may be:

• Solid – made of tissue, but not enclosed.
• Cystic – contained by a sac.
• Mixed – having both cystic and solid parts.