Recurrent intracranial germinoma with dissemination along the ventricular catheter: a case report

Most recurrences of intracranial pure germinoma occur at the primary site, ventricular wall or subarachnoid space. We report a rare case of intracranial germinoma that recurred along the shunt tube 17 years after prior ventriculoperitoneal shunt and radiotherapy. The recurrent tumor, verified histologically as a pure germinoma, involved the right frontal lobe along the ventricular catheter. In spite of subsequent surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, the tumor recurred repeatedly. Recurrence after such a long period highlights the necessity of long-term follow up for patients with germinoma. We also discuss possible causes of tumor dissemination along the ventricular catheter.