General Information About Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a tumoral tissue located at the ends of bones (in the epiphyseal region) that appears as 'multinucleated giant cells' under a microscope and weakens the bone by dissolving it from the inside.
95% of cases are completely benign. However, it is very locally aggressive; it destroys the bone it inhabits and has a high tendency to recur (relapse) in the same location after surgery. Very rarely, it can spread to the lungs.
Persistent pain around the joint where the tumor is located (most commonly around the knee) even at rest, a visible swelling from the outside, limited joint movement, and sudden fractures due to the weakened bone.
On X-rays, osteolytic areas resembling soap bubbles are seen at the end of the bone. An MRI is taken to assess the tumor's spread into the joint and soft tissues, and a definitive diagnosis is made via a biopsy (tissue sample).
The primary treatment is surgery. The tumoral tissue is completely scraped out from within the bone (curettage). A high-speed burr or phenol is used to burn away any remaining microscopic cells. The cavity is then filled with bone cement or a graft.
For tumors that are too large to operate on, located in dangerous areas (such as the spine/pelvis), or have spread to the lungs, special targeted drugs (Denosumab) that stop bone destruction or radiotherapy can be used.
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