Etymed
yolk sac tumor
Definition
A type of germ cell tumor that develops from yolk sac tissue, characterized by the presence of yolk sac structures and often associated with elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents with an abdominal mass and elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels. Imaging reveals a cystic mass with solid components in the ovary. Surgical pathology shows sheets of cells with prominent nucleoli and a prominent capillary-like vascular pattern. The tumor contains Schiller-Duval bodies characteristic of yolk sac tumor. This tumor typically occurs in children and young adults and is associated with elevated AFP levels.
Mnemonic
Yolk sac tumors = YOUNG adults with AFP elevation, and Schiller-Duval bodies