Germinoma recurrence in the conus medullaris 12 years after remission of primary intracranial lesion in the pituitary

Abstract

Intracranial germinomas are rare primary central nervous system tumours that are highly sensitive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Recurrences are infrequent, with the majority occurring within 5years. Although multidisciplinary treatments have resulted in good event-free survival, long-term outcomes, over decades, are relatively poorly reported. We present a rare case of a recurrence in the conus medullaris 12years after complete remission of the primary pituitary germinoma. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first case of a significantly delayed spinal recurrence, occurring at a very distant and uncommon site, from the primary tumour. This case highlights the importance of long-term follow-up, even after complete remission, in order to identify and limit disability from late spinal recurrences in a relatively young patient population. We consider the literature regarding identifying high risk patients, and the role of craniospinal irradiation in limiting late spinal recurrences.