Endodermal sinus tumor of the pineal region. Metastases through a ventriculoperitoneal shunt

Cancer. 1984 Sep 1;54(5):903-6. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(19840901)54:5<903::aid-cncr2820540525>3.0.co;2-d.

Abstract

This case report concerns an endodermal sinus tumor (EST) arising in the pineal region of a 16-year-old boy who died 3 months after radiation. He developed extensive abdominal metastases through a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, whereas the primary tumor and a suprasellar metastasis could be controlled by radiotherapy, demonstrated by autopsy. The histologic diagnosis was supported by an elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein in serum and the demonstration of this marker in the tumor tissue by immunoperoxidase method. The poor diagnosis of all previously reported cases with pineal EST requires a combined modality of surgical approach, radiotherapy, and concomitant chemotherapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Neoplasms / etiology
  • Abdominal Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology
  • Brain Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts / adverse effects*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mesonephroma / pathology
  • Mesonephroma / surgery*
  • Peritoneum
  • Pineal Gland*