Primary extragonadal germ cell tumor of the retroperitoneum: case presentation and review

Abstract

Primary extragonadal germ cell tumors of the retroperitoneum are extremely rare. During embryonic development, germ cells are first seen outside the embryo, inside the yolk sac. At about four to six weeks of development, these cells migrate into the embryo, where they populate the developing testes or ovaries. When these cells miss their destination, they tend to remain in one of the midline sites of the body. These are usually one of three locations: the anterior mediastinum, the retroperitoneum or the pineal gland. This case is that of an extragonadal germ cell tumor of the retroperitoneum, to the present, still of primary origin. Differentiating between primary and secondary tumors of this type can be difficult, as these tumors can regress or develop slowly. Ultrasound and computed tomography play a crucial role in the detection of these tumors. The treatment of extragonadal germ cell tumors involves surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.