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Updated: May 14, 2026

An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
GIANT CELL TUMOR OF BONE: A MULTICENTER EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY IN BRAZIL
Ricardo Gehrke Becker1,2, Carlos Roberto Galia1, Julie Francine Cerutti Santos Pestilho2
1Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
Introduction:
Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) mainly affects young adults' long bone epiphyses, threatening bone strength and joint function. Surgery is the primary treatment, although post-surgery recurrence is significant. This study analyzes patient profiles, treatments, and outcomes for GCTB in Brazil.
Methods:
We retrospectively assessed local recurrence, metastasis, and treatment approaches in 643 GCTB patients across 16 Brazilian centers (1989-2021), considering regional differences.
Results:
5.1% (n=33) developed pulmonary metastases, 14.3% (n=92) had pathological fractures, and the local recurrence rate was 18.2% (n=114). Higher rates of pulmonary metastases (12.1%) and advanced tumors (Campanacci III, 88.9%) were noted in lower-income North and Northeast regions. The North also had more pathological fractures (33.3%), extensive resections (61.1%), and amputations (27.8%). These regions faced longer surgical delays (36-39 days) than the South and Southeast (27-33 days).
Conclusions:
Our findings corroborate international data, underscoring regional disparities in Brazil that may lead to worse outcomes in disadvantaged areas. This highlights the need for improved orthopedic oncology care in Brazil's economically and structurally challenged regions.
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