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Current Status of Stem Cell Transplant in Treatment of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors

  • Genitourinary Cancers (DP Petrylak and JW Kim, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

We aim to discuss the history of high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem-cell transplant in testicular germ cell tumors, prognostic factors to consider prior to transplant, and issues both during and after transplant while also touching on the use of conventional-dose vs. high-dose chemotherapy for initial salvage treatment in patients with relapsed disease.

Recent Findings

The advancements in the treatment of testicular cancer have led to the majority of patients even with distant metastases being cured of their malignancy. Despite this, around 20% of patients with metastatic disease will relapse after first-line therapy, and the majority of these patients will go on to need further salvage chemotherapy, either with conventional-dose chemotherapy or high-dose chemotherapy.

Summary

High-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem-cell transplant is an effective salvage therapy and will still remarkably result in cures for the majority of patients with relapsed disease. While patients receiving it as even third-line salvage therapy may achieve cures, earlier administration likely results in greater efficacy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology - Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, 535 Barnhill Dr, RT 459, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA

    Jennifer King & Nabil Adra

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Correspondence to Nabil Adra.

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Jennifer King declares that she has no conflict of interest. Nabil Adra has received compensation for service as a consultant from Astellas, Bristol-Myers Squibb, AVEO Oncology, and Merck.

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All reported studies/experiments with human or animal subjects performed by the authors have been previously published and complied with all applicable ethical standards (including the Helsinki declaration and its amendments, institutional/national research committee standards, and international/national/institutional guidelines).

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King, J., Adra, N. Current Status of Stem Cell Transplant in Treatment of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Curr Oncol Rep 24, 303–310 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-022-01204-4

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