Giant cell tumor of bone
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DiseasesDB | 9337 |
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eMedicine | radio/307 |
Giant cell tumor of the bone (also called giant cell myeloma or osteoclastoma) is a relatively uncommon tumor. It is characterized by the presence of multinucleated giant cells. These tumors are generally benign. In most patients, the tumors are slow to develop, but may recur locally in as many as 50% of cases. Metastasis to the lungs may occur.
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[edit] Pathophysiology
Giant cell tumors have a distinct appearance under a microscope, so diagnosis usually isn't difficult. The tumor is usually a soft, brown mass, with areas of hemorrhage which appear dark red, and areas of collagen, which appears gray, can be observed. On cut sections necrosis and blood filled sections are often seen. Although giant cell tumors are easy to diagnose, they may contain small foci of aneurysmal bone cysts.
[edit] Occurrences
Giant cell tumor of the bone accounts for 4-5% of primary bone tumors and 18.2% of benign bone tumors. Giant cell tumors are mostly benign, however 5-10% of patients may have a malignant tumor.