Dr. Francisco Bengoa
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Soft-tissue tumors

Giant cell tumor of soft tissue

Soft tissueIntermediate / locally aggressive or rarely metastasizingFibrohistiocytic tumours

Epidemiology

A rare tumor of adults that resembles giant cell tumor of bone under the microscope. Although it resembles giant cell tumor of bone, it usually presents as a soft-tissue mass and is evaluated separately.

Basic features

It appears as a superficial or deep mass, usually in the limbs, and can grow locally.

Usual treatment

Complete resection is the treatment of choice; margins are assessed if there are atypical features.

Outcomes and prognosis

Most cases are controlled locally, although there are rare cases of metastasis.

Warning signs

These signs do not necessarily mean cancer, but they warrant evaluation before operating on or needling a mass.

  • A soft-tissue mass that grows, is larger than 5 cm, or is deep.
  • Persistent, night-time or progressive bone pain, especially if it limits activity.
  • A fracture from minimal trauma, or an aggressive bone lesion on an X-ray.
  • A lump that comes back after previous surgery.
  • Neurological symptoms, rapid swelling, or pain associated with a mass.

This information is general and does not replace a medical evaluation. A musculoskeletal tumor must be interpreted together with imaging, physical examination, biopsy when appropriate and each patient's context.

Specialist evaluation

If you have a mass, a bone lesion or a report suggesting a tumor, book an evaluation.

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