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Introduction to germ cell tumours

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Meiosis in an oocyte (Wellcome Image Library).

Ovarian germ cell tumours may be benign or malignant. Malignant ovarian germ cell tumours are rare (2–5% of all ovarian malignancies) but are the most common form of ovarian cancer in the first two decades of life. Fortunately, with surgery and chemotherapy, most have an excellent prognosis and preservation of fertility is often possible.

All germ cell tumours arise from the germ cells of the ovary (the oocytes) and are classified according to the type of cell that is produced. The tumour develops following a parthenogenetic pregnancy and partial embryogenesis which then develops abnormally into a neoplasm.

Learning objectives

When you have completed this tutorial you will be able to:

  • explain the different types of germ cell tumours and their origin
  • discuss the incidence of these tumours and investigations required for this particular type of ovarian tumour
  • explain the appropriate treatment
  • counsel a woman and her family regarding the long-term effects of treatment on future fertility and the potential risks of the treatment itself
  • know the long-term prognosis of treatment for a germ cell tumour

Last updated: Last updated: 17/11/10 (animation added to the Classification section

29/09/10 (tutorial was revised and updated by Dr Siân Taylor)

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