Management of Extracranial Germ Cell Tumors in Pediatric Patients

This article aims to summarize the fundamentals of pediatric and adolescent extracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs) and to review current best practices regarding surgical and overall management. An understanding of the principles of surgical management of GCTs is critical to ensure optimal outcomes for patients. Details of surgical management vary based on tumor site of origin, but the role of surgery is central to ensuring adequate treatment and staging for tumors of all locations. For pediatric patients, the role of surgery is to maximize chances for disease cure while also maintaining organ function, including future fertility.