The study is "very interesting and provocative," Dr. Margolin concluded, "but we need more data. Pharmacologic investigations are still needed to enhance the quality of life for this growing number of germ cell tumor survivors."
Although the study focused on serum, Dr. Boer noted that platinum can be found in other tissues as well. "In the ganglia, for example, and also in bone, fat, and the liver ... it’s ... not really known if the platinum in these body compartments is reactive or not. It is really a topic that deserves more research," he said.
Dr. Boer disclosed that he had no relevant conflicts of interest. Dr. Margolin disclosed that she is a consultant to Bristol-Myers Squibb, Genentech, and Johnson & Johnson.