Treatment of stage I seminoma: A 15-year review☆

Abstract 

Purpose

To review the treatment and outcomes in patients with stage I seminoma after orchidectomy.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all patients with stage I seminoma referred for initial treatment during the last 15 years was performed. Initial treatment approaches and outcomes were analyzed. Comparisons were made between patients treated with adjuvant radiotherapy and those receiving no adjuvant therapy (surveillance group).

Results

A total of 150 patients with stage I seminoma was seen between 1989 and 2003. Median age at diagnosis was 37.5 years (range 19–79), with a median follow-up of 54 months (range 1–162). Of the patients, 71% were treated with adjuvant radiotherapy, and 29% were placed on a surveillance protocol. The 5-year relapse-free survival and overall survival for the entire group were 95% and 100%, respectively. The 5-year relapse-free survival for the adjuvant radiotherapy group was 100% compared with 79% for the surveillance group (P < 0.001). Of the 6 patients who had a relapse, 5 were salvaged with radiation, but 1 required chemotherapy as well. One patient who had a relapse is currently refusing treatment for recurrence.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the excellent prognosis for patients with stage I seminoma and indicate that surveillance does not compromise survival. This result adds to the evidence that surveillance is a good option for many patients and also supports our current approach, which favors surveillance for most patients with stage I seminoma after orchidectomy who are willing to go on our surveillance protocol.

Keywords:  Radiotherapy , Surveillance , Stage I seminoma