A 17-year experience on bilaterality of ovarian germ cell tumors in pediatric population and its clinical implications: A single-center study

BackgroundSince the incidence of ovarian germ cell tumor (GCT) in pediatric population is low, there is little information regarding this tumor. A synchronous and metachronous bilateral mass is not infrequently observed in GCT patients. It is important to prevent early ovarian failure and preserve fertility.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 112 patients less than 18 years surgically treated for ovarian GCT between 2008 and 2021 at the Department of Pediatric surgery of the Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH). Among these, 13 patients (11.6%) had bilateral masses. In metachronous masses, the recurrence period and therapeutic approach were evaluated. When ovarian failure was a concern, fertility preservation was attempted.ResultsMean age was 8.1 ± 4.0 years. Patients with a bilateral mass were older (p = 0.004). Follow-up was 39.6 ± 40.6 months. Five patients had a synchronous mass, and 8 patients experienced metachronous recurrence. Two patients with a synchronous mass had a metachronous neoplasm (n = 1) and recurrence (n = 1). Patients with metachronous recurrence started menstruation except for two patients who had not reached puberty. The mean recurrence interval was 45.9 ± 38.6 months. Ovum banking was requested for 6 patients and performed in 2.ConclusionsDuring our 17 years of experience, bilaterality was observed in 11.6% of GCT patients. Metachronous mass occurs after 5 years. A longer follow-up plan is needed for early detection. Our multidisciplinary approach to preserve fertility seemed to be successful with close cooperation with gynecologists.