Giant Cell Tumor of Talus: A Case Report

Giant cell tumor of bone most commonly involves ends of the long bones in a skeletally mature patient. Giant cell tumor of the bones of the hand and feet is very rare, so is the giant cell tumor of talus.

We are reporting a case of giant cell tumor of talus in a 17-year-old female who presented with a history of pain and swelling around left ankle since 10 months. Radiographs of the ankle showed lytic expansile lesion involving whole of talus. Talectomy followed by calcaneo-tibial fusion was done as intralesional curettage was not feasible in this patient. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of giant cell tumor. There was no evidence of recurrence even at 9 years follow-up and the patient was able to carry out her daily activities without much discomfort.

Giant cell tumor is most commonly encountered around the knee or distal radius. Involvement of foot bones especially talus is extremely uncommon. In early presentation, extended intralesional curettage with bone grafting and, in late, talectomy with tibiocalcaneal fusion are the treatment options.