Giant-cell tumor of bone: an historical perspective

The history of giant-cell tumor of bone includes important contributions by a group of scientists as distinguished as Lebert, Paget, Nélaton, Robin, Gross, Bloodgood, Ewing, and Jaffe. Various concepts of the origin and role of the osteoclast-like giant cell constitute the basis for present understanding of pathogenesis and treatment of the tumor. Giant-cell tumor of bone, as well as other bone tumors, must be considered as a clinical-radiologic-pathologic entity. Progress in the understanding of bone tumors has been made only when the use of special research techniques have been coupled with close clinical observation. The treatment of giant-cell tumor requires the collaboration of experts in orthopedic surgery, pathology and radiology.