What are germ cell tumors
Germ cells are the cells in your body that are used for reproduction. In women, germ cells form the eggs in the ovaries. In men, germ cells form the sperm in the testicles.
Sometimes when germ cells don't fully develop, they become tumors. No one knows why this happens, though it could be genetic. Germ cell tumors may or may not be cancerous. Overall, germ cell tumors are rare.
Most germ cell tumors occur in the ovaries and testicles, forming ovarian cancer or testicular cancer. However, germ cell tumors can also very rarely form in other parts of your body, such as the brain or spine.
What are the symptoms of germ cell tumors?
Germ cell tumors may cause symptoms in children and young adults. Symptoms may include:
- Pain in the abdomen or chest
- Trouble breathing
- A lump in the groin or lower abdomen
- Vaginal bleeding
- No period
- Early puberty
- Trouble going to the bathroom
- Abnormally shaped or sized testicles