From the Guidelines
Seminomas are histologically characterized by cells analogous to primordial germ cells/gonocytes, present during early embryonic development, with a uniform appearance and specific immunohistochemical markers. The histological description of seminoma is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2016 classification, as mentioned in the ESMO-EURACAN clinical practice guideline for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of testicular seminoma and non-seminoma 1, seminomas are characterized by their uniform cell morphology, resembling primordial germ cells. Some key features of seminoma include:
- Uniform, large cells with abundant clear cytoplasm
- Well-defined cell membranes
- Centrally located nuclei with prominent nucleoli
- Cells are typically arranged in lobules separated by fibrous septa containing lymphocytic infiltrates
- Syncytiotrophoblastic giant cells may occasionally be present
- The stroma often shows a lymphocytic infiltrate, representing an immune response to the tumor
- Immunohistochemically, seminoma cells are positive for placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP), OCT3/4, and CD117 (c-kit), while being negative for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and cytokeratins, as supported by the latest clinical practice guidelines 1. This distinct histological and immunohistochemical profile helps distinguish seminoma from other germ cell tumors, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
From the Research
Histological Description of Seminoma
- The provided studies do not directly describe the histological characteristics of seminoma.
- However, they discuss the management and treatment of seminoma, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies mention that seminomas are exquisitely sensitive to radiation therapy and platinum-based chemotherapy 3.
- They also discuss the different stages of seminoma and the corresponding treatment options, including surveillance, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy 3, 4, 6.
- Additionally, the studies touch on the topic of salvage chemotherapy for patients with advanced seminoma who experience disease progression after receiving first-line treatment 2, 4.