Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors Signs and Symptoms
Extragonadal germ cell tumors are a rare form of cancer that develops in the germ cells, which are reproductive cells that develop into sperm in males and eggs in females. The term “extragonadal” means that these cells have traveled from the testicles or ovaries to other parts of the body. These cells may then begin to grow into extragonadal germ cell tumors. We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of extragonadal germ cell tumors below.
Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.
The Signs and Symptoms of Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors are as follows:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Extreme tiredness
- Cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Eye problems and difficulty moving the eyes
- Trouble walking
- Change in bowel habits
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Night sweats
- Hoarseness
- Abdominal mass with or without pain
The signs and symptoms of extragonadal germ cell tumors depend upon the location and the size of the tumors. Extragonadal germ cell tumors affect predominantly males that have Klinefelter’s Syndrome.
Extragonadal germ cell tumors may be benign or malignant. If untreated, malignant extragonadal germ cell tumors may spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, lymph nodes and bones.
Diagnosis of Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors
A diagnosis of extragonadal germ cell tumors begins with a careful medical history and physical exam. Imaging tests such as x-rays, CT scans and ultrasounds may also be used to determine the presence of extragonadal germ cell tumors. A blood test called a serum tumor marker test is used to determine the presence of certain tumor markers, which are used to detect extragonadal germ cell tumors. A biopsy of the tissue may also be undertaken.
Books For People With Signs and Symptoms of Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors
| The Official Patient’s Sourcebook on Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors: A Revised and Updated Directory for the Internet Age Icon Health Publications |
21st Century Ultimate Medical Guide to Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors – Authoritative, Practical Clinical Information for Physicians and Patients, Treatment Options (Two CD-ROM Set) PM Medical Health News |
| Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer: Extragonadal germ cell tumors Ed.M. Paul A. Johnson |
Extragonadal germ cell tumors: An entry from Thomson Gale’s Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer, 2nd ed. Paul, Ed.M. Johnson |
Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumor Resources
General Patient Resources
- National Cancer Institute
Information about extragonadal germ cell tumor: treatment and clinical trials from the National Cancer Institute.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/extragonadal-germ-cell/
- WD
Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumor information including symptoms, diagnosis, misdiagnosis, treatment, causes, patient stories, videos, forums, and more.
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/e/extragonadal_germ_cell_tumor/intro.htm
- University of Minnesota – Masonic Cancer Center
Information About Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors; Stages of Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors; Treatment Option Overview; Treatment Options for Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors.
http://www.cancer.umn.edu/cancerinfo/NCI/CDR271920.html
- The Testicular Cancer Resource Center
An easy to understand guide covering causes, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment and prevention plus additional in depth medical information.
http://tcrc.acor.org/egc.html
Medical Resources
- Web MD
Information on extragonadal germ cell tumor.
http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/extragonadal-germ-cell-tumors-treatment-patient-information-nci-pdq-general-information-about
- Medscape Reference
In-depth article written by professionals for professionals.
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/278174-treatment