Which ovarian germ cell tumor secretes BOTH alpha-fetoprotein AND beta-hCG, and which is the most chemosensitive malignant germ cell tumor?

• A Mixed germ cell tumor secretes both; dysgerminoma is most chemosensitive
• B Choriocarcinoma secretes both; yolk sac tumor is most chemosensitive
• C Embryonal carcinoma secretes both; embryonal carcinoma is most chemosensitive ✓
• D Immature teratoma secretes both; immature teratoma is most chemosensitive

Explanation

Embryonal carcinoma of the ovary secretes both alpha-fetoprotein and beta-hCG, making it the only primary ovarian tumor that elevates both markers simultaneously. Dysgerminoma is the most chemosensitive and radiosensitive ovarian malignancy (cure rate >90% with BEP chemotherapy). Choriocarcinoma secretes only beta-hCG; yolk sac tumor secretes only AFP.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.