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Germ cell tumors of the brainstem: report on two cases with pulmonary complications and a review of the literature

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Abstract

Intracranial germ cell tumors most commonly present in the pineal and suprasellar regions. Rare cases of brainstem germ cell tumors have been described. Here, we present two cases with brainstem germ cell tumors and review the current literature. The two patients did well, in terms of disease control, but have significant morbidity related to respiratory issues. One patient remains ventilator dependent and the second died from respiratory arrest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neuro-Oncology, The Children’s Hospital, Aurora, CO, USA

    Jenny Madden & Nicholas K. Foreman

  2. Department of Radiation Oncology, Anschutz Cancer Pavilion, MS F706, University of Colorado Denver, 1665 N. Ursula St, Suite 1032, PO Box 6510, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA

    Arthur K. Liu

Authors
  1. Jenny Madden
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  2. Nicholas K. Foreman
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  3. Arthur K. Liu
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Correspondence to Arthur K. Liu.

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Madden, J., Foreman, N.K. & Liu, A.K. Germ cell tumors of the brainstem: report on two cases with pulmonary complications and a review of the literature. J Neurooncol 93, 405–408 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11060-008-9780-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11060-008-9780-5

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