Giant Cell Tumor of the Ring Finger Distal Phalanx

Abstract

Giant cell tumor (GCT) is a benign but locally aggressive neoplasm generally located in the epiphysis and metaphysis of the long bones. Its occurrence in the bones of the hand is rare. Giant cell tumors occurring in the hand account for only 2% of all the GCTs reported. The epimetaphyseal region of short long bones is a common site of GCTs in the hand; however, a phalangeal GCT originating in the distal phalanx is extremely rare. We present the clinical, radiological and histopathological findings of a case of GCT of the distal phalanx of the left ring finger presenting with a fungating mass and treated with en bloc resection by disarticulation of the distal interphalangeal joint.

Keywords: Distal phalanx; GCT.