[Primary malignant dysembryoma of the mediastinum]

The primary malignant dysembryomas of the mediastinum are highly malignant tumours, which originate from embryonal cells. This name excludes seminomas and dysgerminomas which derive from non-fecund germinal cells. In this general review only the dysembryomas will be touched on. They are relatively rare tumours found in young men and are characterised by the rapidity of their spontaneous growth. The absence of a gonadal tumour is sufficient to confirm the primary mediastinal character of malignant dysembryomas. There is little specific in the clinical data. The tumour markers, Beta HCG and above all alpha feto-protein play, at the same time, a leading role not only for diagnosis but also for therapeutic decisions and follow up under treatment. In spite of the appalling reputed prognosis of this disease, the malignant dysembryomas have benefited from the considerable therapeutic progress which has been made in recent years. It is vital to achieve a rapid and accurate diagnosis and to start on treatment without delay with a regime incorporating Cisplatin. As radical surgery as possible usually follows the initial chemotherapy. Post operative treatment depends on the anatomical observations made at the time of surgery.