Recurrent masses after testicular cancer: Growing teratoma syndrome. A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Growing teratoma syndrome is a rare syndrome that affects patients with nonseminomatous germ-cell tumors (NSGCTs). It is characterized by recurrent growing masses that appear during or after chemotherapy in the presence of normal levels of tumor markers. Histological examination is the only way to confirm the diagnosis. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 36-year-old man who developed recurrent masses after curative treatment for NSGCT of the testicle. His tumor markers were normal. The patient was cured after multiple surgical procedures. Conclusions: Close follow-up after treatment for NSGCT is very important for early detection of this syndrome, which can occur even many years after tumor onset. Normal blood makers can be misleading, and surgery remains the only curative treatment.