Primary yolk sac tumor of the rectum

Extragonadal germ cell tumors are well recognized in men but have rarely be en reported in women. Reports have primarily focused on the pediatric popul ation and have suggested a poor prognosis for extragonadal yolk sac tumors. A 23-year-old woman with a yolk sac tumor arising in the rectum is describ ed. A review of the English-language literature (MEDLINE 1966-1998) regardi ng extragonadal germ cell tumors in females is provided. Treatment with fou r courses of cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin as followed by surgical re section of the involved area. No residual tumor was identified. She remains disease free 3.5 years later. Previous reports are limited by the small nu mber of patients, focus on the pediatric population, and treatment before t he availability of cisplatin. Extragonadal germ cell tumors in women are ex tremely rare but can be successfully treated with aggressive chemotherapy a nd surgery similar to testis cancer.