Giant Cell Tumor (GCT) Flashcards
What are Malignant Giant Cell Tumors (GCT)?
GCTs are rare, low grade malignant bone tumors that affect adults from 30 to 40 years of age.
What is the incidence rate of GCTs?
The incidence rate is slightly higher in adult females.
Where do GCTs commonly arise?
GCTs commonly arise in the metaphysis or epiphysis of long bones.
What is a notable characteristic of GCTs?
GCTs have a high tendency to metastasize to the lungs.
In which bones are GCTs most commonly found?
GCTs are common in the distal femur and proximal tibia.
What is the histological composition of Giant Cell Tumors?
Giant cell bone tumors are histologically composed of round or spindle shaped mononuclear cells uniformly incorporated with multinucleated giant cells.
Is grading for GCTs prognostically reliable?
Grading for this type of tumor is not prognostically reliable.
How challenging is it to control GCTs?
GCTs of bone can be challenging to control.
What is the recurrence rate of GCTs?
Although rates of metastasis are low, the disease can recur.
What factors influence the management of GCTs?
Current management of this disease is dependent on the anatomic site of the tumor and how much bone destruction has occurred.
What is the most effective treatment for most GCTs?
For most tumors, surgical curettage is most effective.
What is the treatment for GCTs when surgical excision is not possible?
Radiation therapy is reserved for GCTs that occur in areas where complete surgical excision is not possible.
What radiation dose is recommended for GCTs when surgery is not an option?
Doses ranging from 50-60Gy are recommended for cases when surgery is not an option.
What radiation dose is given for recurrences and locally advanced GCTs?
The same dose of 50-60Gy is given for recurrences and locally advanced disease.
