Spättoxizität und Survivorship bei Keimzelltumoren

Context. Germ cell tumors and Hodgkin's lymphoma are currently the malignant diseases with the highest cure rates. Even in advanced or metastasized disease stages these neoplasms can be cured by multimodal treatment approaches. Nevertheless, the curative treatment modalities applied, e.g. intensive systemic chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, have side effects directly during the course of treatment and even delayed toxicity can occur, which may affect the health and quality of life of cancer survivors. This is why prevention and early detection as well as adequate treatment of toxic side effects affecting medical and psychosocial aspects are essential to maintain or improve patient quality of life.Material and methods. Research of literature and analysis of clinical trials.Results. Not only chronic dysfunction of many organ systems (e.g. cardiovascular risk) but also secondary cancer, infertility and the fear of relapse are common reasons for a variety of psychosocial problems which can prevent cancer survivors from living a normal daily life after curative treatment.Conclusion. Survivorship programs offer these patients the opportunity of dynamic support adapted to their needs on the way to patients becoming long-term survivors.