The Role of Imaging in the Diagnosis, Staging, Response to Treatment, and Surveillance of Patients with Germ Cell Tumors of the Testis

Germ cell tumors (GCTs) of the testis are cured with the successful integration of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy in most cases. The favorable results are a consequence of improved risk stratification, risk-adapted chemotherapy, reduced morbidity of treatment, and appropriate integration of multimodal therapy. The success of these approaches depends on accurate staging with imaging studies of the testis, retroperitoneum, and thorax. This article reviews the indications for imaging and performance characteristics of modalities in the diagnosis, staging, surveillance, and follow-up of patients with GCTs. We also highlight the current guideline recommendations for imaging in treatment of patients with GCTs.