Unresectable Clival Giant Cell Tumor, Tumor Control With Denosumab After Relapse: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2022 Jul 1;44(5):201-209. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000002477. Epub 2022 May 9.

Abstract

Giant cell tumors (GCTs) of the skull base are rare entities. Although considered histologically benign, GCTs are locally aggressive with a high rate of local recurrence. The present case describes a 14-year-old girl with a clival GCT who underwent long-term therapy with denosumab after local relapse. To our knowledge, it is the second case described with a follow-up term >2 years from the start of denosumab and who did not receive any other adjuvant treatment besides denosumab. The patient achieved a local control of the disease. According to the few available data, radical excision with adjuvant therapy helps in long-term control in uncommon sites, such as the skull. However, the definitive treatment is still controversial because of their rarity and few follow-up data. The present case highlights the benefit of denosumab and its safety as long-term therapy and contributes to the existing literature with analysis and evaluation of the management strategies and prognosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bone Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Bone Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Cranial Fossa, Posterior / pathology
  • Denosumab / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Giant Cell Tumor of Bone* / drug therapy
  • Giant Cell Tumor of Bone* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / drug therapy
  • Skull Base Neoplasms* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Denosumab