Extragonadal germ cell tumor presenting with spinal cord compression: a case report and literature review

Farah, Roula A.; Matta, Judy K.; Metri, Aida A.; Bejjani-Doueihy, Noha A.; Saikali, Ibrahim C.

doi:10.1186/s43159-022-00173-4

Extragonadal germ cell tumor presenting with spinal cord compression: a case report and literature review

Authors

Abstract

Background
Yolk sac tumor or endodermal sinus tumor is an uncommon malignant germ cell neoplasm. This tumor usually presents in childhood or young adulthood as a testicular or ovarian mass. Extragonadal sites such as mediastinal, intracranial, and sacrococcygeal have been described. A review of the literature revealed limited related cases. The clinical presentation, radiographic characteristics, operative findings, and patient outcomes are discussed.
Case presentation
We report the occurrence of a primary paraspinal germ cell tumor in a 28-month-old boy who presented with thoracic spinal cord compression. The patient presented with pain, weakness, paraplegia, and bowel and bladder disturbances.
Conclusion
Extragonadal germ cell tumors presenting with spinal cord compression are rare; however, they should be included in the differential diagnosis of every child younger than 3 years old who does not present with the typical features. Germ cell tumors are sensitive to platinum-based chemotherapy, and surgery should only be performed for spinal cord compression and for obtaining tissue biopsy for a definitive diagnosis. The sooner the decompression is done, the better neurological outcome is achieved. Long-term remission, and possibly cure, can be achieved with a multidisciplinary treatment strategy.

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