18fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in the prediction of relapse in patients with high-risk, clinical stage I nonseminomatous germ cell tumors: preliminary report of MRC Trial TE22--the NCRI Testis Tumour Clinical Study Group

Initial surveillance in men with marker negative clinical stage IIA non-seminomatous germ cell tumours

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether extended surveillance with repeated computed tomography (CT) scans for patients with clinical stage IIA (CS IIA; <2 cm abdominal node involvement) and negative markers (Mk-) non-seminomatous germ cell tumours (NSGCTs) can identify those with true CS I. To assess the rate of benign lymph nodes, teratoma, and viable cancer in retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) histopathology for patients with CS IIA Mk- NSGCT.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Observational prospective population-based study of patients diagnosed 2008-2019 with CS IIA Mk- NSGCT in the Swedish and Norwegian Testicular Cancer Group (SWENOTECA) registry. Patients were managed with surveillance, with CT scans, and tumour markers every sixth week for a maximum of 18 weeks. Patients with radiological regression were treated as CS I, if progression with chemotherapy, and remaining CS IIA Mk- disease with RPLND. The end-point was the number and percentage of patients down-staged to CS I on surveillance and rate of RPLND histopathology presented as benign, teratoma, or viable cancer.

RESULTS

Overall, 126 patients with CS IIA Mk- NSGCT were included but 41 received therapy upfront. After surveillance for a median (range) of 6 (6-18) weeks, 23/85 (27%) patients were in true CS I and four (5%) progressed. Of the remaining 58 patients with lasting CS IIA Mk- NSGCT, 16 received chemotherapy and 42 underwent RPLND. The RPLND histopathology revealed benign lymph nodes in 11 (26%), teratoma in two (6%), and viable cancer in 29 (70%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Surveillance with repeated CT scans can identify patients in true CS I, thus avoiding overtreatment. The RPLND histopathology in patients with CS IIA Mk- NSGCT had a high rate of cancer and a low rate of teratoma.

Lymph Node Dissection in Testicular Cancer: The State of the Art and Future Perspectives

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving role of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) in the management of testicular cancer (TC). It explores the significance of RPLND as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool, highlighting its contribution to accurate staging, its impact on oncological outcomes, and its influence on subsequent treatment decisions.

RECENT FINDINGS

RPLND serves as an essential diagnostic procedure, aiding in the precise assessment of lymph node involvement and guiding personalized treatment strategies. It has demonstrated therapeutic value, particularly in patients with specific risk factors and disease stages, contributing to improved oncological outcomes and survival rates. Recent studies have emphasized the importance of meticulous patient selection and nerve-sparing techniques to mitigate complications while optimizing outcomes. Additionally, modern imaging and surgical approaches have expanded the potential applications of RPLND. In the context of TC management, RPLND remains a valuable and evolving tool. Its dual role in staging and therapy underscores its relevance in contemporary urological practice. This review highlights the critical role of RPLND in enhancing patient care and shaping treatment strategies, emphasizing the need for further research to refine patient selection and surgical techniques.

How [18F]-FDG-PET/CT Affects Clinical Management of Patients with Germ Cell Tumors in the Real World

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of PET/CT on clinical management of patients with germ cell tumors (GCTs) conducted in a real-world setting, including avoidance of invasive procedures, additional diagnostic imaging, and changes in treatment.

METHODS

Patients with GCTs were prospectively enrolled into a PET/CT registry study between May 2013 and April 2021. Intended patient management prior and after PET/CT was documented using standardized questionnaires. Changes in oncologic staging and clinical management after PET/CT were recorded, including planned treatment and planned additional diagnostics.

RESULTS

Forty-three male patients with GCTs were included consecutively in this study. After PET/CT, oncologic staging changed in 22/43 patients (51%), with upstaging in seven cases (16%), downstaging in ten cases (23%), and cancer relapse in five cases (11%). The number of patients with intended curative treatment remained stable, while a considerable change in intended therapeutic intervention was noted after PET/CT, with an increase in planned chemotherapy from three to eleven patients and a decrease in planned surgical resection from eleven to two patients. In addition, PET/CT contributed to preventing patients from intended invasive procedures including biopsy and surgery in 8/43 (19%) cases and from additional diagnostic procedures in 25 (58%) cases.

CONCLUSION

With the use of FDG-PET/CT as a tool to guide patient management in GCTs, we observed a notable impact on clinical staging and a consequent reduction in the need for additional invasive and diagnostic procedures. These findings are expected to be even more consequential in the future as treatment modalities improve and the life expectancy of GCT patients further increases.

KEY POINTS

PET/CT considerably influences the clinical stage of GCT patients. PET/CT has remarkable influence on the choice of therapeutic interventions and reduces additional diagnostic procedures.

Advances in diagnosis and treatment of testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is a curable cancer. The success of physicians in curing the disease is underpinned by multidisciplinary advances. Cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy and the refinement of post-chemotherapy surgical procedures and diagnostic strategies have greatly improved long term survival in most patients. Despite such excellent outcomes, several controversial dilemmas exist in the approaches to clinical stage I disease, salvage chemotherapy, post-chemotherapy surgical procedures, and implementing innovative imaging studies. Relapse after salvage chemotherapy has a poor prognosis and the optimal treatment is not apparent. Recent research has provided insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying cisplatin resistance. Phase 2 studies with targeted agents have failed to show adequate efficacy; however, our understanding of cisplatin resistant disease is rapidly expanding. This review summarizes recent advances and discusses relevant issues in the biology and management of testicular cancer.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Staging and Surveillance of Testicular Cancer: 2021 Update

The staging and surveillance of testicular cancer is a complex topic, which integrates clinical, biochemical, and imaging components. The use of imaging for staging and surveillance of testicular cancer is individually tailored to each patient by considering tumor histology and prognosis. This document discusses the rationale for use of imaging by imaging modality during the initial staging of testicular seminoma and nonseminoma tumors and during the planned surveillance of stage IA and IB testicular cancer by histological subtype integrating clinical suspicion for disease recurrence in surveillance protocols. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

Update on pediatric testicular germ cell tumors

BACKGROUND

Testicular germ cell tumors are uncommon tumors that are encountered by pediatric surgeons and urologists and require a knowledge of appropriate contemporary evaluation and surgical and medical management.

METHOD

A review of the recommended diagnostic evaluation and current surgical and medical management of children and adolescents with testicular germ cell tumors based upon recently completed clinical trials was performed and summarized in this article.

RESULTS

In this summary of childhood and adolescent testicular germ cell tumors, we review the initial clinical evaluation, surgical and medical management, risk stratification, results from recent prospective cooperative group studies, and clinical outcomes. A summary of recently completed clinical trials by pediatric oncology cooperative groups is provided, and best surgical practices are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Testicular germ cell tumors in children are rare tumors. International collaborations, data-sharing, and enrollment of patients at all stages and risk classifications into active clinical trials will enhance our knowledge of these rare tumors and most importantly improve outcomes of patients with testicular germ cell tumors.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

This is a review article of previously published and referenced level 1 and 2 studies, but also includes expert opinion level 5, represented by the American Pediatric Surgical Association Cancer Committee.

Pearls and perils in the management of germ cell tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Research and innovation over the past half century have rendered testicular cancer a highly curable malignancy. Challenges and uncertainty remain in several aspects related to the management and surveillance of patients with germ cell tumors (GCT). Long-term effects of treatment on survivors of testicular cancer remain as continued areas of interest. This review aims to highlight pearls and perils in the management of patients with GCT.

RECENT FINDINGS

Uncertainty remain regarding complex aspects of first-line and salvage treatments of GCT, interpretation of tumor markers in cases of α-fetoprotein levels less than 25 ng/ml, plateau of β-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in patients with initial hCG greater than 50 000 mIU/ml, supportive therapies throughout chemotherapy regimens, and long-term survivorship of patients who underwent surgery or received platinum-based chemotherapy. This review aims to highlight challenges that remain in GCT, review the emerging data in these areas, and provide our institutional opinion on the management in several aspects of GCT.

SUMMARY

Testicular cancer continues to present challenging clinical scenarios with respect to treatment, surveillance, and long-term management of patients. We review the data and share our institutional knowledge in several challenging areas related to the management of GCT.

PET/CT limitations and pitfalls in urogenital cancers

Hybrid FDG PET/CT plays a vital role in oncologic imaging and has been widely adopted for the staging and restaging of a variety of malignancies. Its diagnostic value in urogenital malignancies is less well-known, not at least because of the variable FDG avidity of these tumor entities, the sites of these tumors, and technical challenges associated with sequential imaging of CT and PET. PET/CT interpretation thus can be especially challenging and is associated with many pitfalls, which can lead to both false-positive and false-negative diagnoses as well as incorrect assessment of metabolic change following therapy. Currently, FDG PET/CT is not the standard of care for the initial diagnosis or staging of early-stage or low-risk urogenital cancers; however, it can help evaluate distant metastatic disease, response to therapy, and disease recurrence in high-risk patients. Knowledge of imaging features of tumor metabolic avidity and pitfalls is essential for accurate interpretation.

Improving outcomes in germ cell cancers using miRNA

Owing to advances in treatment paradigms across the last five decades, testicular cancer is now eminently curable. However, current serum tumour and imaging biomarkers lack adequate sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value. Subsequently, their utility in detecting active malignancy and informing treatment decisions is minimal in a large proportion of men with testicular cancer. Micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNA), pertinently miR-371a-3p, offer a new tool, which based on early data, appears to fill many of the gaps that existing biomarkers leave. This paper reviews the evolution of the technology, potential limitations, and discusses the clinical relevance of miRNA as it moves towards the clinic.

A 25-year review of advances in testicular cancer: Perspectives on evaluation, treatment, and future directions/challenges

The year 2020 will be remembered for a number of different events, both good and bad. For the journal Urologic Oncology, Seminars and Original Investigations, this year represents the 25th anniversary of its inception and 1st publication. Under the encouragement of Editor-in-Chief Dr. Michael Droller, the collective editorial board has put together a reflection of the progresses made among the spectrum of genitourinary cancers across the entirety of therapeutic disciplines. In this review, we discuss the advances achieved in our knowledge and understanding of testicular germ cell tumors since 1995, and the challenges that lie ahead.

Multimodality Radiological Pictorial Review of Testicular Carcinoma: From Initial Staging to Restaging

With an overall 5-year survival rate >95%, patients with testicular cancer have a great prognosis. Although initial diagnosis is based on clinical examination, imaging does play a significant role in the diagnosis and prognosis of testicular cancer, which are dependent on tumor burden and staging. Successful treatment requires appropriate disease assessment throughout a patient’s treatment: evaluating treatment response, restaging, and monitoring for disease recurrence after treatment completion. Ultrasound is usually the initial screening modality for painless testicular masses, and computedtomography (CT) the most commonly used for staging and restaging. However, with regard to seminomas, positron-emission tomography (PET) combined with CT is slowly taking priority. With regard to nonseminomatous germ-cell tumors, PET-CT has not proven to be completely effective, due to a high number of false-negative results. The purpose of this paper is to provide radiologists with a pictorial review of testicular carcinoma from initial staging through posttreatment follow-up.

Testicular Cancer, Version 2.2020, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon and accounts for <1% of all male tumors. However, it is the most common solid tumor in men between the ages of 20 and 34 years, and the global incidence has been steadily rising over the past several decades. Several risk factors for testicular cancer have been identified, including personal or family history of testicular cancer and cryptorchidism. Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) comprise 95% of malignant tumors arising in the testes and are categorized into 2 main histologic subtypes: seminoma and nonseminoma. Although nonseminoma is the more clinically aggressive tumor subtype, 5-year survival rates exceed 70% with current treatment options, even in patients with advanced or metastatic disease. Radical inguinal orchiectomy is the primary treatment for most patients with testicular GCTs. Postorchiectomy management is dictated by stage, histology, and risk classification; treatment options for nonseminoma include surveillance, systemic therapy, and nerve-sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. Although rarely occurring, prognosis for patients with brain metastases remains poor, with >50% of patients dying within 1 year of diagnosis. This selection from the NCCN Guidelines for Testicular Cancer focuses on recommendations for the management of adult patients with nonseminomatous GCTs.

Defining risk of micrometastatic disease and tumor recurrence in patients with stage I testicular germ cell tumors

There is controversy in the management of patients with clinical stage I non-seminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT). Some experts recommend surveillance for all patients regardless of risk factors while others suggest a more risk-adapted approach by using lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and the embryonal component in the primary tumor to select patients most likely to benefit from primary treatment [retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) or chemotherapy]. With the surveillance for all strategy, only patients who relapse are treated. While this minimizes the over treatment, problem associated with the risk adapted approach, this exposes young men to the effects of full induction cisplatin-based chemotherapy when these men could have received fewer cycles of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) or a curative primary RPLND. The challenge is identifying these men who are most likely to benefit from upfront treatment more precisely. This paper explores the currently risk adapted approaches as well as promising emerging biomarkers (microRNA) that, in early data, appear to more accurately predict the presence of microscopic disease in the retroperitoneum over conventional markers.

[Positron emission tomography in germ cell tumors in men : Possibilities and limitations]

BACKGROUND

Conventional radiographic imaging may fail to safely distinguish clinical stage I from stage IIA germ cell cancer, to localize isolated tumor marker relapses, and to equivocally identify the viability of postchemotherapy residual masses.

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview of the diagnostic value and limitations of functional imaging by positron emission tomography with 2‑deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose with computed tomography (¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT) in male germ cell cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A narrative review based on a literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE for original articles published from 1990-2018 and conference proceedings of ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) and EAU (European Association of Urology) annual meetings 2014-2017 is presented.

RESULTS

¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT does not improve diagnostic accuracy compared to conventional CT imaging clinical stage (CS) I disease. Particularly PET-negativity of postchemotherapy residual masses of seminomas >3 cm in size guide decision-making against further additional treatment. Even PET-positive residues must not result in relapse. For nonseminoma, the value of PET imaging is reduced by potential mature teratoma components, which are commonly PET negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Current guidelines recommend ¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT 6-8 weeks postchemotherapy for viability assessment of seminoma residues >3 cm in size. Exceptional circumstances, in which ¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT may be helpful, include: (1) detection of active disease in CS IS, (2) viability assessment of residual masses >1 cm where complete secondary resection is impossible, (3) staging at marker relapse with unconspicuous conventional CT scan, (4) early response assessment during chemotherapy.

Lymph node imaging in testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is a rare malignancy mainly affecting young men. Survival for testicular cancer remains high due to the effectiveness of multimodal treatment options. Accurate imaging is imperative to both treatment and follow-up. Both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suffer from size cut-offs as the only distinguishing characteristic of benign vs. malignant lymph nodes and may miss up to 30% of micro-metastatic disease. While functional [positron emission tomography (PET)] imaging may rule out disease in patients with seminoma who have undergone chemotherapy, there is insufficient evidence to recommend its use in other settings. This review highlights the uses and pitfalls of conventional imaging during staging, active surveillance, and post-treatment phases of both seminomatous and non-seminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT).

Using Imaging to Predict Treatment Response in Genitourinary Malignancies

CONTEXT

Over the previous2 decades, there have been numerous advancements in the diagnostic evaluation, therapeutic management, and postoperative assessment of genitourinary malignancies.

OBJECTIVE

To present a review of current and novel imaging modalities and their utility in the assessment of therapeutic response in the systemic management of renal, testicular, and prostate cancers.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A PubMed/Medline search of the current published literature inclusive of prospective and retrospective original research, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses was conducted evaluating imaging modalities for renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. All relevant literature was individually reviewed and summarized to provide a concise description of the currently available imaging modalities and their efficacy in assessing treatment response of the genitourinary malignancies targeted in this review.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Conventional imaging techniques play a pivotal role in predicting the treatment response of genitourinary malignancies and have, therefore, been incorporated into clinical guidelines. Advancements in imaging technology have led to increased utilization for prognostication of a genitourinary cancer's response to therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

A good understanding of current recommended imaging techniques to evaluate treatment response in genitourinary malignancies is of paramount importance for today's clinician, who faces increasing treatment modalities.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this review, we summarize available imaging modalities in the evaluation of treatment response in kidney, prostate, or testicular tumors. We believe that a good understanding of current imaging modalities is of paramount importance for healthcare providers treating these cancers.

Applications of PET/MR Imaging in Urogynecologic and Genitourinary Cancers

Positron emission tomograph (PET)-magnetic resonance (MR) is a new modality combining PET and MR. In gynecologic cancers it can be used for staging of cervical and endometrial cancer, planning of radiation therapy in cervical cancer, assessing response to chemotherapy in ovarian cancer, and detection of recurrence in most gynecologic cancers. It is being explored for prostate cancer and other genitourinary cancers, but is still in experimental stages.

Current Concepts in Management of Stage I NSGCT

While about 50% of non- seminomatous germ cell tumors of the testes present as clinical stage I (CSI), further management of these patients continues to be mired in controversy. Active surveillance is a frontline option for low- risk CS I patients and according to some, even the high- risk ones with high embryonal carcinoma (ECA) component and vascular invasion (VI). However, it carries the disadvantage of long- term surveillance, the need for prolonged chemotherapy in case of recurrence and the possibility of secondary malignancies due to radiation exposure from frequent CT scans. One or two cycles of BEP chemotherapy is a popular alternative to active surveillance which carries a very low relapse rate, but valid concerns about overtreatment of a majority of patients, with the attendant chemotherapy- related toxicity exist. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection has been used as a means of avoiding chemotherapy, especially in high- risk patients, but carries the disadvantage of a high surgical morbidity and complications. As with any major surgical procedure, the best results are dependent on the experience and skill of the individual surgeon.

The present and future of serum diagnostic tests for testicular germ cell tumours

Testicular germ cell tumours (GCTs) are the most common malignancy occurring in young adult men and the incidence of these tumours is increasing. Current research priorities in this field include improving overall survival for patients classified as being 'poor-risk' and reducing late effects of treatment for patients classified as 'good-risk'. Testicular GCTs are broadly classified into seminomas and nonseminomatous GCTs (NSGCTs). The conventional serum protein tumour markers α-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) show some utility in the management of testicular malignant GCT. However, AFP and hCG display limited sensitivity and specificity, being indicative of yolk sac tumour (AFP) and choriocarcinoma or syncytiotrophoblast (hCG) subtypes. Furthermore, LDH is a very nonspecific biomarker. Consequently, seminomas and NSGCTs comprising a pure embryonal carcinoma subtype are generally negative for these conventional markers. As a result, novel universal biomarkers for testicular malignant GCTs are required. MicroRNAs are short, non-protein-coding RNAs that show much general promise as biomarkers. MicroRNAs from two 'clusters', miR-371-373 and miR-302-367, are overexpressed in all malignant GCTs, regardless of age (adult or paediatric), site (gonadal or extragonadal) and subtype (seminomas, yolk sac tumours or embryonal carcinomas). A panel of four circulating microRNAs from these two clusters (miR-371a-3p, miR-372-3p, miR-373-3p and miR-367-3p) is highly sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of malignant GCT, including seminoma and embryonal carcinoma. In the future, circulating microRNAs might be useful in diagnosis, disease monitoring and prognostication of malignant testicular GCTs, which might also reduce reliance on serial CT scanning. For translation into clinical practice, important practical considerations now need addressing.

[Positron-emission tomography in urooncology]

The use of positron emission tomography (PET) is an established method for the diagnosis of urological malignancies. Several tracers are currently available to obtain metabolic information or directly detect molecular targets. While (18)F-FDG-PET is recognized in current guidelines for the staging of seminoma, PET is not used in clinical routine in renal malignancies due to the lack of specific tracers. Despite initial promising results in bladder cancer, no relevant additional diagnostic value with PET using (18)F-FDG or choline-based tracers could be obtained in most patients and therefore should be used with caution or only within clinical trials. In prostate cancer, however, after development of new tracers that, for example, target prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a paradigm shift in imaging can be recognized. Here, (68)Ga-PSMA-PET might be included in the future as part of standard imaging work-up.

Defining a New Prognostic Index for Stage I Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors Using CXCL12 Expression and Proportion of Embryonal Carcinoma

PURPOSE

Up to 50% of patients diagnosed with stage I nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCTs) harbor occult metastases. Patients are managed by surveillance with chemotherapy at relapse or adjuvant treatment up front. Late toxicities from chemotherapy are increasingly recognized. Based on a potential biologic role in germ cells/tumors and pilot data, our aim was to evaluate tumor expression of the chemokine CXCL12 alongside previously proposed markers as clinically useful biomarkers of relapse.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Immunohistochemistry for tumor expression of CXCL12 was assessed as a biomarker of relapse alongside vascular invasion, histology (percentage embryonal carcinoma), and MIB1 staining for proliferation in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded orchidectomy samples from patients enrolled in the Medical Research Council's TE08/22 prospective trials of surveillance in stage I NSGCTs.

RESULTS

TE08/TE22 trial patients had a 76.4% 2-year relapse-free rate, and both CXCL12 expression and percentage embryonal carcinoma provided prognostic value independently of vascular invasion (stratified log rank test P = 0.006 for both). There was no additional prognostic value for MIB1 staining. A model using CXCL12, percentage embryonal carcinoma, and VI defines three prognostic groups that were independently validated.

CONCLUSIONS

CXCL12 and percentage embryonal carcinoma both stratify patients' relapse risk over and above vascular invasion alone. This is anticipated to improve the stratification of patients and identify high-risk cases to be considered for adjuvant therapy.

Role of imaging in testicular cancer: current and future practice

The article provides a summary of the epidemiologic and clinical aspects of testicular malignancy. Current standard imaging and novel techniques are reviewed. Present data and clinical treatment trends have favored surveillance protocols over adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy for low-stage testicular malignancy. This has resulted in increasing numbers of imaging studies and the potential for increased long-term exposure risks. Understanding imaging associated risks as well as strategies to minimize these risks is of increasing importance. The development, validation and incorporation of alternative lower risk highly efficacious and cost-effective imaging techniques is essential.

FDG-PET/CT in a Patient with Poor-Risk Non-Seminoma Testis with Mature Teratoma and Secondary Gliosarcoma: Multimodality Imaging for Guiding Multimodality Treatment

The value of F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in detecting viable tumours in patients with metastasised non-seminomatous testicular cancer and residual and new masses post chemotherapy remains to be determined. We describe the case of a 41-year-old patient with metastasised non-seminomatous testicular cancer, with both retroperitoneal and extra-retroperitoneal residual masses post chemotherapy, for whom FDG-PET/CT guided major treatment decisions. FDG-PET/CT correctly identified the locations of viable tumour, as was proved by histology, and successfully guided surgery. In conclusion, in selected cases surveillance of patients with non-seminomatous testicular cancer with FDG-PET/CT can guide major treatment decisions when considering surgery for metastatic disease.

The role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in the management of testicular cancers

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the utility of fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose PET/computed tomography ((18)F-FDG PET/CT) in managing testicular cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-two patients (29 seminoma, 28 nonseminoma and five mixed) underwent 75 (18)F-FDG PET/CT scans (16 scans for primary staging, 44 for residual masses and 15 for rising tumour markers). Follow-up histology, clinical scans and tumour marker results were included for retrospective analysis.

RESULTS

(i) Primary staging: eight of 11 patients with equivocal CT scans had true-negative (18)F-FDG PET/CT scans. Five high-risk patients with normal stage 1 CT scans had negative (18)F-FDG PET/CT scans, but two subsequently relapsed. (ii) Residual masses: of the 20 scans interpreted as showing viable disease, five were false positive. Nineteen scans were negative (18 true negative and one false negative). (iii) Rising tumour markers: of the 15 scans, two were false negative and 13 were true positive.

CONCLUSION

(18)F-FDG PET/CT is helpful when primary staging CT scans are equivocal but insufficiently sensitive to predict relapse in high-risk patients with normal CT scans. With residual masses, a negative scan is rarely associated with relapse. (18)F-FDG PET/CT is helpful in defining recurrent disease in the majority of patients with rising tumour markers and negative CT scans.

Evolving role of positron emission tomography (PET) in urological malignancy

We present a review on the increasing indications for the use of positron emission tomography (PET) in uro-oncology. In this review we describe the details of the different types of PET scans, indications for requesting PET scans in specific urological malignancy and the interpretation of the results.

Management of urological malignancies: Has positron emission tomography/computed tomography made a difference?

Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) technology has been a significant, but expensive addition to the oncologist's armamentarium. The aim of this review was to determine the clinical utility of PET/CT in urological oncology, its impact on disease outcome and cost-effectiveness. We searched MedLine and peer reviewed journals for all relevant literature available online from the year 2000 until January 2014 regarding the use of PET/CT in the management of urological malignancies. (11)C-choline PET/CT has emerged as a powerful tool for assessment of biochemical relapse in prostate cancer. Use of novel radiotracers like (124)I-girentuximab has shown promise in the diagnosis of clear cell renal carcinoma. Fluorodeoxyglucose PET has a proven role in seminoma for the evaluation of postchemotherapy residual masses and has shown encouraging results when used for detection of metastasis in renal, bladder, and penile cancer. Introduction of novel radiotracers and advanced technology has led to a wider application of PET/CT in urological oncology. However, testicular seminoma aside, its impact on disease outcome and cost-effectiveness still needs to be established.

Maintaining success, reducing treatment burden, focusing on survivorship: highlights from the third European consensus conference on diagnosis and treatment of germ-cell cancer

In November 2011, the Third European Consensus Conference on Diagnosis and Treatment of Germ-Cell Cancer (GCC) was held in Berlin, Germany. This third conference followed similar meetings in 2003 (Essen, Germany) and 2006 (Amsterdam, The Netherlands) [Schmoll H-J, Souchon R, Krege S et al. European consensus on diagnosis and treatment of germ-cell cancer: a report of the European Germ-Cell Cancer Consensus Group (EGCCCG). Ann Oncol 2004; 15: 1377-1399; Krege S, Beyer J, Souchon R et al. European consensus conference on diagnosis and treatment of germ-cell cancer: a report of the second meeting of the European Germ-Cell Cancer Consensus group (EGCCCG): part I. Eur Urol 2008; 53: 478-496; Krege S, Beyer J, Souchon R et al. European consensus conference on diagnosis and treatment of germ-cell cancer: a report of the second meeting of the European Germ-Cell Cancer Consensus group (EGCCCG): part II. Eur Urol 2008; 53: 497-513]. A panel of 56 of 60 invited GCC experts from all across Europe discussed all aspects on diagnosis and treatment of GCC, with a particular focus on acute and late toxic effects as well as on survivorship issues. The panel consisted of oncologists, urologic surgeons, radiooncologists, pathologists and basic scientists, who are all actively involved in care of GCC patients. Panelists were chosen based on the publication activity in recent years. Before the meeting, panelists were asked to review the literature published since 2006 in 20 major areas concerning all aspects of diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of GCC patients, and to prepare an updated version of the previous recommendations to be discussed at the conference. In addition, ∼50 E-vote questions were drafted and presented at the conference to address the most controversial areas for a poll of expert opinions. Here, we present the main recommendations and controversies of this meeting. The votes of the panelists are added as online supplements.

The management of low-stage non-seminomatous germ cell tumors

The prognosis of patients with stage I non-seminomatous germ cell tumors is in general very good. However, a large number of patients relapse with metastatic disease after orchidectomy Therefore, adjuvant treatment, in the form of either chemotherapy or retroperitoneal dissection is recommended, although active surveillance has been found to be as good a way of treating these patients with overall excellent results.

Retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy and resection for testicular cancer: an update on best practice

Clinical stage I testicular nonseminomatous germ cell tumours (NSGCTs) are highly curable. Following orchidectomy a risk-adapted approach using active surveillance (AS), nerve-sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (nsRPLND) and primary chemotherapy is recommended by the current guidelines. Clinical stage I is defined as negative or declining tumour markers to their half-life following orchidectomy and negative imaging studies of the chest, abdomen and retroperitoneum. Active surveillance can be performed in low-risk and in high-risk NSGCTs with an anticipated relapse rate of about 15% and 50%. The majority of patients will relapse with good and intermediate prognosis tumours which have to be treated with three to four cycles chemotherapy. About 25-30% of these patients will have to undergo postchemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (PC-RPLND) for residual masses. Primary chemotherapy with one or two cycles of cisplatin (Platinol), etoposide and bleomycin (PEB) is a therapeutic option for high-risk clinical stage I NSGCT associated with a recurrence rate of only 2-3% and a minimal acute and long-term toxicity rate. nsRPLND, if performed properly, will cure about 85% of all high-risk patients with clinical stage I NSGCT without the need for chemotherapy. PC-RPLND forms an integral part of the multimodality treatment in patients with advanced testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs). According to current guidelines and recommendations, PC-RPLND in advanced seminomas with residual tumours is only indicated if a positron emission tomography (PET) scan performed 6-8 weeks after chemotherapy is positive. In nonseminomatous TGCT, PC-RPLND is indicated for all residual radiographic lesions with negative or plateauing markers. Loss of antegrade ejaculation represents the most common long-term complication which can be prevented by a nerve-sparing or modified template resection. The relapse rate after PC-RPLND is around 12%, however it increases significantly to about 45% in cases with redo RPLND and late relapses. Patients with increasing markers should undergo salvage chemotherapy. Only select patients with elevated markers who are thought to be chemorefractory might undergo desperation PC-RPLND if all radiographically visible lesions are completely resectable. PC-RPLND requires a complex surgical approach and should be performed in experienced, tertiary referral centres only.

The role of imaging in staging and monitoring testicular cancer

The prognosis for testicular cancer is excellent, with a 5-year survival rate greater than 95%. Patients affected can therefore expect to be cured after treatment. Successful treatment requires assessment of the condition at the various stages of its management. Imaging plays a major role in initial analysis of the lymphatic extension and in looking for metastases. It is essential for evaluating the response to treatment and during follow-up after treatment. CT is the most commonly used imaging method in this context, but the role of PET is currently developing. The purpose of this paper is to review the role of the imaging methods commonly used in the management of testicular cancer.

[The treatment of early-stage germ cell tumors of the testis (GCTT)]

The treatment of tumors of the testis represents an ideal model of care for cancer. Many different, intersecting strategies are available for managing germ-cell cancers, particularly in the early-stage disease. Which is 'right' remains a matter of debate, and requires balancing efficacy against late effects, bearing in mind the complexity of treatment strategies and the available expertise. The cornerstone of this model of success is linked to the quality and appropriateness of care. The current therapeutic strategy is very complex (Fig. 1). High-tech surgery, medical oncology and radiotherapy are involved at various levels of diagnostic techniques of the latest generation. The choice of therapy, alone or integrated, is often influenced by prognostic factors. In this article we will examine the important points and sometimes the subject of controversy in both diagnosis and treatment of these early-stage tumors (Clinical Stage I: disease confined to the testis; Clinical Stage IIA: retroperitoneal lymph nodes < 2 cm).

Multidisciplinary management of malignant ovarian germ cell tumours

OBJECTIVES

Malignant ovarian germ cell tumours (MOGCT) are rare cancers of young women. Limited prospective trials exist from which evidence-based management can be developed. This review summarizes the available literature concerning MOGT in order to provide the clinician with information relevant to their multidisciplinary management.

METHODS

MEDLINE was searched between 1966 and 2010 for all publications in English where the studied population included women diagnosed with malignant ovarian germ cell tumours.

RESULTS

The majority of patients can be cured with fertility-preserving surgery with or without combination chemotherapy. Long term survival approaches 100% in early stage disease and is approximately 75% in advanced stage disease. Most studies suggest that the treatment has little, if any, effect on future fertility and limited data suggest that there is no adverse effect on the future quality of life.

CONCLUSION

MOGCTs are rare tumours of young women the majority of which can be successfully treated with fertility-preserving surgery with or without chemotherapy with preservation of reproductive function. Minimisation of chemotherapy in good prognostic groups and improved treatment in resistant and relapsed MOGCT are important goals for the future. Further studies are needed to quantify the late adverse effects of treatment in long term survivors.

PET in testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is a rare tumor, subdivided into seminomatous and nonseminomatous tumors. Whereas there are no serum tumor markers in the first group, they are present in nonseminomatous tumors, and are also important prognostic factors. Overall, the prognosis for testicular cancers is good, which makes the choice of accurate treatment intensity between under- and overtreatment often difficult. Residual masses in advanced clinical stages occur frequently but are nonvital tissue. PET with F-18 FDG has no defined role in imaging of primary tumors where CT is the first-choice imaging modality. For assessing the success of chemotherapy in the presence of residual masses, especially in pure seminoma, F-18 FDG PET is an important tool. In nonseminomatous tumors, it is hampered by the false-negative results in mature teratoma, for which reason false-negative results are a common problem. F-18 FDG PET performs best in predicting relapse in seminoma residuals larger than 3 cm. So far, no alternative to F-18 FDG for PET imaging of testicular cancer has been found. PET-CT has not yet been proven to be superior to PET alone in testicular cancer.