Giant Cell Tumor

Giant Cell Tumor is a type of bone tumor that usually affects the ends of long bones, such as near the knee or wrist. It involves the skeletal system and typically occurs in young adults. This tumor is made up of many large cells called giant cells that can cause the bone to weaken and sometimes break. People with this condition often experience pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected area. Although it is generally benign, the tumor can be aggressive and may spread locally, affecting nearby tissues. Early detection is important to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Giant Cell Tumor of bone is a generally benign but locally aggressive neoplasm characterized by the presence of numerous multinucleated osteoclast-like giant cells mixed with mononuclear stromal cells. It most commonly arises in the epiphysis of long bones in skeletally mature individuals, particularly around the distal femur and proximal tibia. The tumor is thought to result from neoplastic transformation of stromal cells that recruit and activate osteoclast precursors, leading to bone resorption. Clinically, it presents with localized pain, swelling, and sometimes pathological fractures. Radiographically, it appears as a lytic, eccentric lesion without a sclerotic rim. Although benign, it can rarely metastasize to the lungs or undergo malignant transformation. The major clinical significance lies in its potential for local recurrence and bone destruction.