Endonasal surgery for suprasellar germ cell tumors: two cases and review of the literature

Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2019 Aug;161(8):1699-1704. doi: 10.1007/s00701-019-03969-3. Epub 2019 Jun 18.

Abstract

Germ cell tumors are rare malignant tumors frequently located in the suprasellar region. Definitive treatment is chemotherapy and radiation. However, in some circumstances, surgery is indicated for biopsy or resection. There are limited reports of the role of the endonasal endoscopic approach (EEA) in the management of this tumor. We present two cases in which EEA was utilized for successful management of germ cell tumor. The most challenging aspect of germ cell tumor management for the treating physician is knowing the proper indications for surgery. In this paper, we highlight two specific instances, namely diagnosis and tumor refractory to chemoradiation. Given the suprasellar location, EEA is an ideal approach.

Keywords: Endoscopic endonasal; Germinoma; Intracranial germ cell tumor; Outcome; Suprasellar.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / methods*
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / surgery*
  • Nose
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / surgery*