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This overview discusses several important developments in testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) over the past year.Genomic studies continue to investigate gene expression as possible markers for disease relapse and metastatic potential. Optimal treatment strategies for early-stage seminomas continue to evolve toward surveillance versus chemotherapy, although developing radiation delivery modalities may ultimately provide a safe alternative. The role of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in postorchiectomy early-stage nonseminoma germ cell tumors remains a topic of debate.Treatment paradigms continue to be refined for TGCTs as research in these areas continues.

To discuss several important developments in the diagnosis, management, and risk stratification of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) in the past year.Germ cell function and tumorigenesis may be influenced by exposure to a variety of agents, including metals and cannabinoids. Genome-wide association studies have identified variants in several genes that may produce susceptibility to the development of testicular malignancies, and expression of certain proteins predicts a poorer prognosis and may, thus, play a role in neoplastic progression. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection continues to play a crucial role in definitive treatment of patients with nonseminoma germ cell tumor, whereas radiotherapy, as a standard treatment for early-stage seminoma, has been declining due both to the efficacy of platinum-based chemotherapy and to the increased risk of radiation-related secondary malignancies. Advanced and platinum-refractory disease states continue to be challenging entities in terms of optimizing therapy and outcome.Preclinical and clinical studies continue to enhance our insights into the complex biology of TGCTs, and are helping to further refine risk stratification and optimize treatment of patients with TGCTs.

Purpose of review To discuss several important developments in the diagnosis, management, and risk stratification of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) in the past year. Recent findings Germ cell function and tumorigenesis may be influenced by exposure to a variety of agents, including metals and cannabinoids. Genome-wide association studies have identified variants in several genes that may produce susceptibility to the development of testicular malignancies, and expression of certain proteins predicts a poorer prognosis and may, thus, play a role in neoplastic progression. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection continues to play a crucial role in definitive treatment of patients with nonseminoma germ cell tumor, whereas radiotherapy, as a standard treatment for early-stage seminoma, has been declining due both to the efficacy of platinum-based chemotherapy and to the increased risk of radiation-related secondary malignancies. Advanced and platinum-refractory disease states continue to be challenging entities in terms of optimizing therapy and outcome. Summary Preclinical and clinical studies continue to enhance our insights into the complex biology of TGCTs, and are helping to further refine risk stratification and optimize treatment of patients with TGCTs.

This overview discusses several important developments in testicular germ cell tumors in the past year.Genomic studies are examining gene expression as possible markers for disease relapse and chemotherapy resistance. Optimal posttreatment surveillance strategies continue to evolve. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection remains a prominent treatment modality, although the sequencing and extent of surgical intervention is controversial. Platinum-based chemotherapy remains the gold standard for treatment of systemic disease. Poor risk, platinum-refractory and late relapse disease states continue to be challenging entities in terms of optimizing therapy and outcome.Significant challenges remain for treatment of certain categories of testicular germ cell tumors. Treatment and surveillance paradigms continue to be defined and refined as research in these areas continues.