Immune-related mechanisms and immunotherapy in extragonadal germ cell tumors

Weigang Xiu; Jiyun Pang; Yang Hu; Huashan Shi

doi:10.3389/fimmu.2023.1145788

Immune-related mechanisms and immunotherapy in extragonadal germ cell tumors

Front Immunol. 2023 Apr 17:14:1145788. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1145788. eCollection 2023.

Authors

Weigang Xiu¹, Jiyun Pang^{1

2}, Yang Hu³, Huashan Shi⁴

Affiliations

¹ 1Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
² West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
³ Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
⁴ Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Extragonadal germ cell tumors (EGCTs) are relatively rare tumors, accounting for 1%-5% of all GCTs. In this review, we summarize the current research progress regarding the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of EGCTs from an immunology perspective.

Recent findings: The histological origin of EGCTs is related to a gonadal origin, but they are located outside the gonad. They show great variation in morphology and can occur in the cranium, mediastinum, sacrococcygeal bone, and other areas. The pathogenesis of EGCTs is poorly understood, and their differential diagnosis is extensive and challenging. EGCT behavior varies greatly according to patient age, histological subtype, and clinical stage.

Summary: This review provides ideas for the future application of immunology in the fight against such diseases, which is a hot topic currently.

Keywords: diagnosis; extragonadal germ cell tumor; immunohistochemistry; immunotherapy; mechanism.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Diagnosis, Differential
Humans
Immunotherapy
Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal* / diagnosis
Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal* / therapy