Challenges and advances in the management of pediatric intracranial germ cell tumors: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Intracranial germ cell tumors are a heterogeneous group of tumors, broadly classified into germinomatous, nongerminomatous, or teratoma subtypes. Treatment has evolved over recent decades to include multimodal therapy combining surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Although the majority of intracranial germs cell tumors are treated successfully, management can be fraught with complexities and present significant clinical challenges. Bifocal disease is well described, but rare, and therefore its behavior is not well characterized, particularly in nongerminomatous disease. This case report presents an interesting case, with both rare and common complications, in particular, to emphasize the challenges of germ cell tumor management. With a focus on bifocal disease, we review the published cases and highlight how advanced imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy can be used in management. Advances in biology, targeted agents, and novel diagnostic tools are also discussed.