Untreated giant cell tumor of the lower arm!
This patient developed a fast growing giant-cell tumor of the distal radius!! Surgeons performed a below-elbow amputation due to probability of malignancy and fast growth of the tumor which caused a complete destruction of the bone and soft tissue surrounding it. Giant cell tumor of the bone is a rare, aggressive non-cancerous tumor. It generally happens in adults between ages 20 and 40 when skeletal bone growth is complete. It usually develops near a joint at the end of the bone. Most occur in the long bones of the legs and arms. Giant cell tumors most often occur in young adults when skeletal bone growth is complete. The exact cause of giant cell tumors remains unknown. Symptoms may include joint pain, swelling, and limited movement. Although giant cell tumors are not cancerous, they are aggressive and can destroy the surrounding bone. It is a relatively uncommon tumor of the bone and characterized by the presence of multinucleated giant cells (osteoclast-like cells) seen on microscope. Malignancy is uncommon and occurs in about 2% of all cases, and when it does occur, it usually metastasizes to the lungs. The goal for treatment of a giant cell tumor is to remove the tumor and prevent damage to the affected bone. Tumors that can’t be removed surgically can often be controlled and sometimes destroyed with radiation therapy.
