Intracranial Germ Cell Tumors in Children With and Without Down Syndrome

Abstract

Subtle neurologic manifestations in developmentally handicapped patients with intracranial space-occupying lesions could result in delayed diagnosis. Children with Down syndrome suffering from brain tumors may have a higher chance for germ cell tumors. Assay for alpha-fetoprotein and beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin could hasten diagnosis in some cases. This observation and review of literature suggest an increased risk of developing intracranial germ cell tumors in subjects with Down syndrome.