WhatsApp

How Children with Germ Cell Tumors Respond to Early Chemotherapy

You are here >> Home > Latest Updates > Testicular Cancer > How Children…

Outcome of Children With Intermediate-Risk Extracranial Malignant Germ Cell Tumors by Response Status at the End of Induction Chemotherapy DOI- 10.1002pbc.32033

Germ cell tumors are a rare cancer in children. Most children respond well to chemotherapy. But what happens if the first rounds of treatment don’t fully work?

A new study looked at over 200 children with intermediate-risk germ cell tumors. Almost all of them got a common chemo treatment called PEb. After three cycles, most kids had a complete responseβ€”meaning no signs of cancer. These children had excellent results: nearly all stayed cancer-free and survived.

But a small group didn’t respond completely after the first three cycles. These kids were given more of the same chemotherapy, hoping it would help. Unfortunately, the results weren’t nearly as good. Less than two-thirds stayed cancer-free, even after extra treatment.

Doctors are now asking: Is more of the same chemo really helping these children? Or should they be switched to a different treatment sooner?

This study suggests that if the first chemo doesn’t fully work, it may be better to change the plan instead of continuing the same drugs. It could give children a better chance to recover.

If your child is being treated for a germ cell tumor, talk with your care team about response after the first cycles. A quick change in treatment might make a big difference.

Rate this post
dr swati shah - uro & gynec cancer surgeon
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.