Germ Cell Tumors

Overview

Germ cells are reproductive cells — cells that form sperm in males and eggs in females. Germ cell tumors can start almost anywhere in the body and can be either noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).

Cancer of the testicles (testicular cancer) almost always starts in germ cells. In contrast, most ovarian cancers are not germ cell tumors. Diagnosis and treatment of germ cell tumors depends on their location, form and stage of development.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Expertise, experience and teamwork. Mayo Clinic has the expertise and experience to treat germ cell tumors. A team of highly skilled specialists creates a customized treatment program for you, giving you access to the latest diagnostic and treatment options. Your treatment team may include specialists in urology, gynecology, surgery, pathology, medical oncology and radiation oncology.
• Efficiency. In Mayo's efficient system, testing, diagnosis and the start of treatment for germ cell tumors can usually be done in days, not months.
• Comprehensive cancer center. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center meets National Cancer Institute standards for a comprehensive cancer center and is a leader in translating research knowledge into innovative treatments for people with cancer.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for cancer by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., and Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., are ranked high performing for cancer by U.S. News & World Report.