Suprasellar/pineal bifocal germ cell tumors

Abstract

Intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT) arise from embryonal rests of germinal cells. The aim of this report is to analyze a small group of GCT located simultaneously in the suprasellar and pineal regions without seeding either between both tumors or to other places. We named this group as suprasellar/pineal bifocal germ cell tumors (SPBT). A retrospective review of a series of 25 GCT showed a) 16 cases of unifocal non-disseminated pineal or sellar GCT, b) one case of unifocal disseminated pineal GCT, c) three cases with suprasellar and pineal double tumors with dissemination, and d) five cases with SPBT. The analysis is focused on the latter group. The series includes four pure germinomas and one germinal non-germinoma. MRI and endoscopic exploration were necessary to define SPBT. Endocrine, ocular, and increased intracranial pressure syndromes were identified and related to the size of the tumors. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were performed in all SPBT. Radical or partial resection of SPBT offered no benefits over biopsy. Prognosis for bifocal groups was similar to unifocal tumors of the same histological type. Complete remission without recurrence and mortality were achieved in all cases. SPBT seem to be an entity defined by a) one tumor in the suprasellar and another in the pineal region, b) GCT with predominance of PG, but not exclusively, and c) MRI and endoscopy without any dissemination. The presence of two tumors does not indicate dissemination; SPBT were non-disseminated but focal tumors, and spinal radiotherapy was not necessary.