Giant-cell tumor of the bone (GCTOB): clinical case

Giant-cell tumor of the bone is a benign tumor, but with high local aggressiveness, even with risk of distant metastasis. From an epidemiological standpoint, giant-cell tumor of the bone accounts for 4-5% of primary bone tumors and ~20% of benign bone tumors; commonly affects adults between 20-40 years, slightly more common in females. We present the case of a 57-year-old woman, without significant pathological history, which, after clinical, imagistic and anatomopathological investigations, is diagnosed with giant cell tumor of the right distal radius. The patient underwent surgery and segmental resection of the tumor in oncological limits was performed, replacing the remaining bone defect with fibular autograft. The results were good, according to Mayo functional assessment score. This way, the wrist joint mobility and the carpal cartilage were preserved, providing a barrier against distal migration of any remaining tumoral cells, as well. In conclusion, we can state that in aggressive giant cell tumors located at the distal radius, the best therapeutic option is en bloc resection of the formation (lesion) with fibular autograft replacement of the bone defect.