VCU Massey Cancer Center

Treatment for germ cell tumors

Specific treatment for germ cell tumors will be determined by your child’s physician based on:

• Your child’s age, overall health and medical history.
• Extent of the disease.
• Your child’s tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies.
• Expectations for the course of the disease.
• Your opinion or preference.

Treatment may include (alone or in combination) the following methods:

• Surgery – to remove tumor and involved organs.
• Chemotherapy.
• Radiation.
• Bone marrow transplantation.
• Supportive care – for the effects of treatment.
• Hormonal replacement – if necessary.
• Antibiotics – to prevent/treat infections.
• Continuous follow-up care – to determine response to treatment, detect recurrent disease and manage the late effects of treatment.