Abstract | PURPOSE: MATERIALS AND METHODS: Histories of 6 cases of germ cell tumors that remained in remission despite abnormal serum AFP and/or HCG were reviewed. RESULTS: Markers were only modestly elevated, remained constant or spontaneously normalized during repeat measurements, and there was no other clinical or radiographic evidence of disease. Patients were treated conservatively with physical examination, radiological tests and repeat marker assays, with no relapse to date. CONCLUSIONS: Stable, low increases in serum AFP and HCG may not represent active disease. Careful repeat evaluation will determine whether the markers increase. If no change is noted after appropriate studies have been reviewed by an experienced practitioner to exclude active disease from diagnosis, then consideration should be given to managing such cases with close surveillance to avoid unnecessary chemotherapy.
|
Authors | M J Morris, G J Bosl |
Journal | The Journal of urology
(J Urol)
Vol. 163
Issue 3
Pg. 796-801
(Mar 2000)
ISSN: 0022-5347 [Print] United States |
PMID | 10687980
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)
|
Chemical References |
- Biomarkers, Tumor
- Chorionic Gonadotropin
- alpha-Fetoproteins
- L-Lactate Dehydrogenase
|
Topics |
- Adult
- Biomarkers, Tumor
(blood)
- Chorionic Gonadotropin
(blood)
- False Negative Reactions
- Germinoma
(blood, diagnosis)
- Humans
- L-Lactate Dehydrogenase
(blood)
- Male
- Testicular Neoplasms
(blood, diagnosis)
- alpha-Fetoproteins
(analysis)
|