Germ cell ovarian cancer

Germ cells are the cells in an ovary that develop into eggs. A tumour arising from them is different from the more common epithelial ovarian cancers, so the exact subtype matters. Symptoms can include pelvic or abdominal pain, swelling, a mass, or changes in periods, although symptoms vary. A pelvic ultrasound may help locate an ovarian mass. Diagnosis depends on tissue examination and other clinical information; tumour markers may also help the team follow the disease.

Care is coordinated by a gynaecological oncology team. Surgery may remove one ovary while preserving the other in selected situations, or may involve a wider operation such as oophorectomy. Chemotherapy is often considered because germ cell tumours can respond to medicines that travel through the bloodstream. The plan depends on subtype, stage, tumour features, age, fertility wishes and overall health. Ask whether genomic tumour profiling or BRCA genetic testing has a role; these tests answer different questions.

Arrange prompt assessment for persistent pelvic pain, increasing abdominal size, a new pelvic lump, unexplained vomiting, or bleeding between periods. Seek emergency help for sudden severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or repeated vomiting, because these can reflect an urgent complication even before the diagnosis is known. During treatment, report fever, breathlessness, inability to drink, or rapidly worsening pain to the oncology team.

Which germ cell subtype is suspected? Will surgery affect fertility? What will pathology show? Why is chemotherapy recommended, and how will response be monitored?