Testicular germ cell tumors.
OBJECTIVE
An overview of many of the preclinical and clinical developments in germ cell tumors over the past year is presented.


RESULTS
Recent epidemiologic studies show changes in the ethnic incidence of germ cell tumors; in particular, African-Americans have seen an increase. Additionally, risk factors for the development of germ cell tumors continue to be identified. Work on the molecular pathways involved in the progression to malignancy continues to expand. First line treatment for the disease is highly effective. In an effort to limit unnecessary treatments and treatment-related toxicities, risk-adapted adjuvant therapies are being explored in early stage germ cell tumors. Identification of more effective second-line treatments for advanced relapsing and refractory disease remains a priority.


CONCLUSIONS
Germ cell tumors are highly treatable, but significant challenges remain for recurrent and refractory disease. Recent studies on the molecular pathogenesis of germ cell tumors further highlight the complexity of the disease. As these processes are better understood, the therapeutic options will continue to evolve.
Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.
Benjamin
B
Bridges
Arif
A
Hussain
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D019788:Fluorodeoxyglucose F18; D020869:Gene Expression Profiling; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins / Q000235:genetics; D009373:Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D016609:Neoplasms, Second Primary / Q000209:etiology; D009919:Orchiectomy; D049268:Positron-Emission Tomography; D018714:Radiotherapy, Adjuvant; D012307:Risk Factors; D013736:Testicular Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins; D019788:Fluorodeoxyglucose F18