Giant Cell Tumor of the Patellar Tendon Sheath Mimicking a Meniscal Tear in Athletes.A Report of Two Cases

J Orthop Case Rep. 2022 Nov;12(11):54-59. doi: 10.13107/jocr.2022.v12.i11.3414.

Abstract

Introduction: Giant cell tumors(GCT) are uncommon and benign tumors originating due to proliferation of the tendon synovial sheath. Most commonly are located in the fingers. Involvement of the patellar tendon in the knee is extremely rare.

Case report: We report two cases who presented with moderate swelling located in the anterior surface of the knee, localized anterior knee pain, and painful loss of flexion and catching and locking symptoms. Following detailed imaging evaluation, both cases were treated with open surgical excision and patellar tendon synovectomy. Histological examination revealed the presence of a giant cell tumor of the patellar tendon sheath in both cases.

Conclusion: Despite the rarity to GCT, the importance of considering all possible tumors in cases where a soft-tissue tumor is present should be stressed out.

Keywords: Giant cell tumor; knee; nodular synovitis; patellar tendon.

Publication types

  • Case Reports