A practical approach to the reporting of germ cell tumours of the testis

摘要

Summary Germ cell tumours (GCT) present many different challenges for diagnostic histopathologists and a new classification by the World Health Organization has recently introduced some new entities. The accurate diagnosis of GCT is essential for appropriate treatment. Therapy is also influenced by staging and, therefore, careful macroscopic examination is vital. Many prognostic markers have been used, many of which are still contentious. Close co-operation with both the surgical and medical teams is vital for consistent treatment and the avoidance of misunderstandings. A number of entities may mimic GCT, leading to misdiagnosis.The morphological appearances of GCT are particularly difficult to interpret if chemotherapy has already been administered. Many transformations of GCT may be seen including sarcomatous, carcinomatous and neuroendocrine malignancies. These require different treatment regimens and may arise many years after the primary excision.