MR imaging of primary spinal germinoma: a case report and review of the literature

J Neuroimaging. 2009 Jan;19(1):92-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2007.00214.x. Epub 2008 Sep 16.

Abstract

Germinomas in the central nervous system (CNS) are uncommon tumors and occur usually in the pineal or suprasellar regions. Primary spinal germinoma is extremely rare. Here we reported a rare case of an extramedullary germinoma in a young adult who presented with progressive paraparesis and retention of stool and urine. The MR image features with their differential diagnoses were discussed along with literature review of all previously reported 22 cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Germinoma / diagnosis*
  • Germinoma / pathology
  • Germinoma / surgery
  • Humans
  • Lumbar Vertebrae
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / pathology
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / surgery
  • Thoracic Vertebrae
  • Young Adult