Germ Cell Tumors

Reproductive cell growths, called germ cell tumors, can develop in the body. These growths may be benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Most often, these tumors are found in the testicles or ovaries.

Sometimes, these tumors appear in other parts of the body, like the belly, brain, or chest. Scientists aren't entirely sure why this happens. When germ cell tumors form outside the testicles and ovaries, they're called extragonadal germ cell tumors, and they're quite uncommon.

If a germ cell tumor is diagnosed, there are different ways to treat it. Doctors might use surgery to remove the tumor. Chemotherapy, which uses special drugs to kill cancer cells, is another option. Radiation therapy, which uses powerful beams of energy, is also sometimes used.