[Central giant cell granuloma. Histochemical and ultrastructural study on giant cell function (author's transl)]

Multinucleated giant cells in giant cell granuloma are formed by cell fusion of capillary pericytes. In our present study we tried to analyze cell function and activity by histologic, histochemical, and electronmicroscopic examination of giant cells. Lysosomal enzymes such as acid phosphatase and amino-peptidase were found in giant cells which is in agreement with former work. By their lysosomal system giant cells are proved phagocytic. In addition, giant cells being localized at trabecular surfaces of newly formed woven bone may develop osteoclastic functions. The enzymatic and funcational resemblance of giant cells and multinucleated osteoclasts points to the possibility of a similar cytogenesis of both cell types.