Giant Cell Tumor of Soft Tissue: A Rare Entity

Orthopedics. 2019 Jul 1;42(4):e364-e369. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20190624-04.

Abstract

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of the soft tissue (GCT-ST) is a rare, unusual primary soft tissue tumor that is completely distinct from, and should not be confused with, any giant cell-rich tumor of bone or soft tissue. Currently, GCT-ST is included in the group of so-called fibrohistiocytic tumors of intermediate (borderline) malignancy. The most common symptom is a painless, slow-growing mass in a superficial location. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging show a solid, nonhomogeneous, frequently hemorrhagic mass. Differential diagnosis is broad and should include benign and malignant entities. The treatment and excision margins of GCT-ST are controversial. Incomplete surgical excision is usually followed by local recurrence. Biological behavior is unpredictable. Giant cell tumor of the soft tissue has shown a lower mean local recurrence rate compared to GCT of bone but has a higher metastatic and death rate. Therefore, close clinical follow-up is recommended. [Orthopedics. 2019; 42(4):e364-e369.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Giant Cell Tumors / diagnosis
  • Giant Cell Tumors / pathology
  • Giant Cell Tumors / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / surgery*
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods*
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / pathology
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / surgery*