[Pediatric testicular tumors].

BACKGROUND

Testicular tumors are rare in childhood but differ significantly from adult forms in terms of etiology, histology, and prognosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for the prognosis and quality of life of affected children.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the etiology, classification, clinical presentation, diagnostic tests, and treatment of pediatric testicular tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This article is based on an analysis of current literature.

RESULTS

Pediatric testicular tumors are benign in 60-75% of cases, most commonly teratomas or Leydig cell tumors. Malignant tumors such as yolk sac tumors are rare and show low metastatic potential. Diagnostics include ultrasound, tumor markers (AFP, hCG, LDH), and imaging (MRI, CT). Treatment consists of organ-sparing surgery in suspected benign cases and orchiectomy in malignant cases. Chemotherapy is reserved for metastatic tumors. In localized stage I disease, surveillance is often sufficient.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric germ cell tumors differ from adult testicular tumors in terms of incidence, malignancy, and histology. Treatment decisions should always be made within an interdisciplinary framework.