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Epidemiology and Long-Term Survival of Primary Central Nervous System Germ Cell Tumors in Korea: A Nationwide
Yoon Hwan Byun1,2, Johyun Ha3, Joo-Young Kim4
1Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University (SMG-SNU) Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Background:
Primary central nervous system germ cell tumors (CNSGCTs) are rare neoplasms that predominantly affect adolescents, and young adults. However, large population-based data remain limited. To address this gap, the latest epidemiologic and long-term survival data for newly diagnosed CNSGCTs in Korea from 2005 to 2022 were analyzed.
Methods:
We sourced epidemiological and survival data on primary CNSGCTs using the Korea National Cancer Incidence Database (KNCI DB), a nationwide population-based cancer registry. Incidence and survival outcomes were compared with those reported in recent CBTRUS Statistical Reports from the USA and previous epidemiologic studies from Japan.
Results:
A total of 1,642 newly diagnosed primary CNSGCTs were identified. There was a marked male predominance, with the highest incidence observed in the 10-14 and 15-19 age groups. Germinoma was the predominant histopathologic subtype across all age groups, except in the 0-4 and 30+ age groups, where the proportion of teratomas was relatively high. The overall incidence of CNSGCTs remained stable throughout the study period. The 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year relative survival rates were 95.4%, 89.6%, 87.1%, and 84.6%, respectively, with germinomas showing the most favorable prognosis. The incidence of primary CNSGCTs was significantly higher in Korea than in the USA. Long-term outcomes were excellent and comparable to those reported from the USA and Japan.
Conclusion:
The overall incidence of CNSGCTs was significantly higher in Korea, with favorable long-term survival outcomes. Distinct patterns and significant differences in survival outcomes were observed across different age groups and histopathologic subtypes.
