Basic histopathologic assessment of germ cell tumors for clinic and research

Abstract

This chapter introduces the macroscopic and light microscopic features of testicular germ cell tumors (GCT) commonly encountered in clinical practice. Accurate diagnosis of these histologically diverse neoplasms is essential not only for clinical management but also for serving as the basis for interpretation of research findings. We will focus on general histopathologic concepts and discuss the use of immunohistochemistry (IHC) as an aid to the diagnosis.