Giant cell tumor of the proximal phalanx: a case report

We report a 45-year-old man who presented with a 3-month history of pain and swelling in the proximal phalanx of the right fifth finger. After biopsy and pathological examination the lesion was found to be an aggressive (Enneking's stage 3) giant cell tumor of the proximal phalanx. Due to the high rate of recurrence of stage 3 giant cell tumors in the hand after en bloc resection, it was decided to amputate the right little finger through the metacarpo-phalangeal joint. After a 3-year follow-up of the patient there have been no recurrences or metastases.