Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath: spectrum of radiologic findings

Musculoskeletal Soft-tissue Masses

Evaluation of soft-tissue masses has become a common clinical practice indication for imaging with both ultrasound and MR imaging. We illustrate the ultrasonography and MR imaging appearances of soft-tissue masses based on the various categories, updates, and reclassifications of the 2020 World Health Organization classification.

Malignant giant cell tumor of toe: A case report and review of literature

INTRODUCTION

A giant cell tumor of soft tissue (GCST) is a benign soft tissue tumor that often occurs subcutaneously in the extremities. Rare cases of malignant GCST have been reported, but its pathogenesis remains unclear.

PATIENTS CONCERNS

We report a case of a 68-year-old man who noticed a painless mass on his second toe one and a half years ago. He visited the Department of Dermatology at our hospital. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a soft tissue tumor, surrounding the distal aspect of the second toe.

DIAGNOSIS

A biopsy of the tumor was performed by a dermatologist, and it revealed a malignant giant cell tumor of the toe.

INTERVENTIONS

He was referred to our department and underwent lay amputation for wide-margin resection.

OUTCOMES

No recurrence or metastasis was observed 5 years after treatment.

CONCLUSION

: Malignant GCST should be treated with wide-margin resection immediately after its diagnosis.

Arthroscopic Excision of Localized Nodular Tenosynovitis of Carpometacarpal Joint of Thumb: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Giant cell tumors of tendon sheath are classified according to their clinical presentation as localized or diffuse, and they may occur at intra-articular or extra-articular locations. Although magnetic resonance imaging is mandatory and sufficient for diagnosis in many cases, histological examination is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Complete surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment. Radiotherapy as adjuvant or after recurrence shows promising results. Though small joint arthroscopy, especially of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, is a relatively new technique and mainly used for the treatment of basal joint arthritis of the thumb, the indications are evolving. We report a rare case of nodular tenosynovitis of the CMC joint of the thumb managed with complete arthroscopic resection of the tumor, and no recurrence at a follow-up of 2.5 years. This is another addition to the list of indications for thumb CMC arthroscopy. Arthroscopic treatment provides the distinct advantage of thorough assessment of the articular cartilage, complete excision of the tumor via a minimally invasive technique, early return of function, and better cosmesis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first such report of arthroscopic resection of nodular tenosynovitis of the thumb CMC joint.

Giant cell tumour of EHL tendon sheath in young: a rare case report and review of the literature

Giant cell tumour of tendon sheath also known as benign synovioma is a slow-growing benign tumour originating from tendon sheath, ligaments or bursa. We present a case of swelling over the left foot of 7-month duration in 11-year-old boy diagnosed as giant cell tumour of tendon sheath. There was an extensive pressure effect of tumour mass on the second metatarsal evident by scalloping. Local excision was planned and executed, and reduction in scalloping was evident at 26-month follow-up with no recurrence. We conclude that en bloc resection of tumour with a hydrogen peroxide lavage may result in a favourable prognosis without recurrence.

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath in a 5-year-old child; A case report

Introduction

and importance: Giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath in children have rarely been reported in the literature. This study aims to present a case of giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath on the big toe of a 5-year-old child.

Case presentation

A 5-year-old girl presented with a painless swelling over the dorsal aspect of right big toe for 2 weeks. Physical examination revealed non-tender rubbery like swelling over the dorsal aspect of the right big toe. Ultrasound scan of the swelling showed a 17 × 7 mm oval-shaped subcutaneous hypoechoic lesion. Magnetic resonance imaging showed evidence of 20× 8 mm well-defined fusiform soft tissue lesion scalloping the bone. Under general anesthesia, the mass was totally excised. Microscopic sectioning showed a mixture of fibroblasts and histiocyte like cells associated with multinucleated giant cells in the vascular connective tissue stroma with the definite diagnosis of the giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath.

Discussion

These tumors mostly compose of several types of cell like synovial, siderophages, foam, inflammatory and multinucleate giant cells. The major etiological factors that induce development of this tumor could be traumatic, inflammatory, metabolic or neoplastic disease.

Conclusion

although it is a sporadic finding, giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath might affect the lower limb in children. Complete excision is the main modality of treatment.

•

A giant cell tumor of tendon sheath is a painless benign soft tissue tumor.

•

There are only a few cases that have been reported in the feet of children.

•

In this study a case of giant cell tumor of tendon sheath in a 5-year-old child discussed.

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor involving the cervical spine: A case report

BACKGROUND

Tenosynovial giant cell tumors (TGCTs) are a frequent benign proliferative disease originating from the synovial membrane. However, TGCTs rarely occur in the spine. The purpose of this paper is to report a case of TGCT occurring in the cervical spine. Although the disease is rare, it is essential to consider the possibility of TGCT in axial skeletal lesions. Awareness of spinal TGCTs is important because their characteristics are similar to common spinal tumor lesions.

CASE SUMMARY

A 49-year-old man with a 2-year history of neck pain and weakness in both lower extremities was referred to our ward. Imaging revealed a mass extending from the left epidural space to the C4-5 paravertebral muscles with uneven enhancement. The tumor originated in the synovium of the C4-5 lesser joint and eroded mainly the C4-5 vertebral arch and spine. Puncture biopsy was suggestive of a giant cell-rich lesion. The patient had pulmonary tuberculosis, and we first administered anti-tuberculosis treatment. After the preoperative requirements of the anti-tuberculosis treatment were met, we used a posterior cervical approach to completely remove the mass after fixation with eight pedicle screws. The mass was identified as a TGCT by postoperative immunohistochemical analysis. Recurrence was not detected after 1 year of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Spinal TGCTs are often misdiagnosed. The radiological changes are not specific. The ideal treatment comprises complete excision with proper internal fixation, which can significantly reduce postoperative recurrence.

MRI evaluation of solid soft tissue masses of the fingers with pathology correlation

OBJECTIVE

Space occupying lesions of the fingers are commonly encountered in clinical and radiology practice. The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics of these lesions on MRI and to correlate with surgical pathology results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This IRB-approved HIPAA-compliant study retrospectively evaluated the clinical, imaging and pathology findings of 100 consecutive patients referred for evaluation of solid soft tissue masses of the fingers. Only solid lesions with MR imaging prior to surgery were included in this study. MR images and when available corresponding radiographs were evaluated by two radiologist in regard to signal characteristics, relation to surrounding structures and enhancement. All masses were classified into different groups based on pathology results.

RESULTS

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TSGCT) and fibroma of the tendon sheath were the most common solid tumors (36 %) and malignant tumors represent only 5% of the cohort. 70 % of masses with low T2 signal were TSGCT and fibroma of tendon sheath; 100 % of masses with peripheral high T2 signal and central low T2 signal/thrombus were vascular lesions, representing 41 % of the total vascular lesions in the cohort. Additionally, 100 % of serpiginous/tubular shaped masses were vascular lesions and 67 % of masses with infiltrative borders were malignant masses. Enhancement was important in identifying solid lesions but there was no statistical difference between groups related to enhancement pattern. There was a good agreement for all analyses between both readers.

CONCLUSION

Typical MR findings can help to narrow the differential diagnosis in the evaluation of finger masses and provide crucial information to guide further management.

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor in the foot and ankle

BACKGROUND

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TSGCT) originates from the synovial cells of the tendon sheath and is the most common soft tissue tumor of the foot and ankle. Due to the lack of clinical data about TSGCT in the foot and ankle, this study was performed with the aim of investigating the clinical characteristics, and surgical outcomes that might predict the likelihood of recurrence.

METHODS

Clinical data, obtained from the pathology records and the clinic files, along with the tumor subtype, local recurrence, and patient functional status among 26 cases of TSGCT were evaluated with the mean 73 months follow-up period.

RESULTS

There were 26 patients including 16 males and 10 females with a mean age of 40 years, who underwent surgery. There were 15 localised TSGCT and 11 diffuse TSGCT. The diffuse TSGCT was more likely to be in the hindfoot dorsum (54,5%, 6/11). The localised TSGCT was mostly located in the forefoot (80%, 12/15). The recurrence rate in the diffuse TSGCT was 27,3% (3/11). In the localised TSGCT, recurrence was seen in 6,6% of patients (1/15). The mean AOFAS score was 79.

CONCLUSION

Diffuse TSGCT is more likely to occur in the hindfoot and localised TSGCT is more common in the forefoot. Excision with clear margins is an effective treatment for TSGCT, with good oncological and clinical outcomes. But the orthopaedic surgeons should consider the equilibrium between surgical margins and the functional status of the patient.

Magnetic resonance imaging features of fibromas and giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath: differential diagnosis

PURPOSE

The clinical and imaging characteristics of fibromas of the tendon sheath (FTS) closely resemble those of giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath (GCTTS). We aimed to study MRI features of FTS and GCTTS to distinguish the two entities and improve their differential diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from 18 patients (9 men, 9 women; age, 17-62 years) and 24 patients (13 men, 11 women; age, 15-67 years) treated between May 2011 and May 2016, with histologically confirmed FTS and GCTTS, respectively. Specific MRI features of the two groups were compared using the independent sample t tests and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

FTS exhibited round or oval shapes. Proton-weighted images (PDWI) showed heterogeneous hypointensity that appeared striped or disordered and was located in the lesion center. Enhanced scans demonstrated asymmetrical signal in the foci. GCTTS mostly exhibited a lobulated or casting mold pattern, with a hypointense ring on PDWI. The hypointense components appeared granular/flaky or separated, sometimes behaving as a uniform signal on PDWI. Significant differences in the following features were observed between the two groups: lesion morphology (p < 0.001); imaging features on PDWI, including whether the signal is homogeneous (p < 0.001); the presence of a hypointense ring (p = 0.006); the location and morphology of hypointensity (p < 0.001); bone absorption (p = 0.008); enhancing pattern (p = 0.008); and whether the tumor crossed the joint (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

FTS and GCTTS demonstrate distinctive MRI features, which can be used for differential diagnosis with sensitivities, specificities, and diagnostic accuracies of 83-100%, 29-79%, and 60-89%, respectively.

KEY POINTS

• Fibromas and giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath have distinct features on MRI, including differences in lesion morphology and intensity patterns, which can be used for differential diagnosis. • Among other signs, GCTTS are more uniform than FTS, and FTS have a striped or disordered pattern. • Tumors were classified with 90% accuracy into either FTS or GCTTS based on a combination of two features: homogenous signal and hypointensity shape on PDWI.

Giant Cell Tumor of Tendon Sheath in the Hand Affecting Children: Clinical and Radiological Findings, Histological Diagnosis and Treatment

Introduction

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) is a benign tumor, originating from proliferation of the synovial cells of a tendon sheath. It is very rare within the pediatric population.

Case Report

In this case presentation, we describe two cases of GCTTS in the hand, in a 7-year-old female and a 6-year-old male.

Conclusion

GCTTS occurs very uncommonly in children. It is difficult to accurately diagnose on clinical examination and radiological investigation alone, and thorough and complete excision is important to avoid recurrence of the lesion. The two cases presented in this report help further define this condition, in terms of diagnosis and management, in the pediatric population.

Calcified desmoplastic fibroblastoma of the foot: imaging findings

We report a case of desmoplastic fibroblastoma (DF) of the foot in a 65-year-old woman. The tumor presented as a slow-growing, painless mass located in the first intermetatarsal space of the right foot. Ultrasound showed a well-circumscribed hypoechoic lesion containing hyperechoic calcifications confirmed on standard radiographs. At magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the mass appeared isointense to the muscles on T1-weighted (T1W) images, hyperintense on proton-density-weighted fat-saturated images, and presented scattered internal hypointense foci. Post-contrast T1W spectral presaturation with inversion recovery (SPIR) images showed heterogeneous, mostly peripheral, contrast enhancement. DF must be considered in the differential diagnosis of soft-tissue calcified tumors of the foot.

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath arising from a membrane surrounding the posterior arch of C1: a case report

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) is a common, benign lesion of the synovial membrane that occurs more often in large joints than in digits. Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath rarely arises in close proximity to the axial skeleton.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to report a rare case of GCTTS arising from the membrane surrounding the posterior arch of the atlas (C1).

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

This is a case report.

METHODS

The methods involve clinical findings and review of current literature.

RESULTS

In this report, we describe a rare case of GCTTS arising from the membrane surrounding the posterior arch of C1, with no apparent continuity with the facet joint. Here we show the radiographic features, with particular emphasis on positron emission tomography-computerized tomography scans, which have not been previously reported.

CONCLUSIONS

We experienced an extremely rare case of GCTTS arising from the membrane surrounding the posterior arch of the C1 vertebra. In spite of the rarity of this disease, GCTTS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the axial skeletal lesion. Awareness of GCTTS is important because its radiographic features may simulate other neoplastic lesions in the spine.

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath extending around the patellar tendon and invading the knee joint and tibia: A case report

The current report presents the case of a 41-year-old male exhibiting a giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath (GCT-TS) arising from the patellar tendon sheath. Plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a well-localized mass that wrapped around the patellar tendon, and extended from the subcutis into the infrapatellar fat pad and tibia. Following histopathological determination of the diagnosis, a piecemeal resection was performed. Nodular-type GCT-TS occurs less frequently in large joints compared with the small joints of the fingers and toes. The current report presents the unique features of a case of GCT-TS extending around the patellar tendon, and invading into the knee joint and proximal tibia bone.

Intra-articular fibroma of tendon sheath arising in the acromioclavicular joint

Fibroma of the tendon sheath, a rare benign soft tissue tumor that most often occurs in the distal upper extremities (hands and wrist), is exceedingly rare to present as an intraarticular mass. Presented here is the first case in the English literature, to our knowledge, of a fibroma of the tendon sheath arising in the acromioclavicular joint. The patient presented with recurrent shoulder pain with activity without antecedent trauma. Radiographs were essentially normal. MR images demonstrated a lobulated, heterogeneous mass with contrast enhancement arising from the acromioclavicular joint. Following surgical resection, histopathology revealed hypocellular collagen matrix with spindle-shaped fibroblasts, confirming the diagnosis of fibroma of tendon sheath. The imaging features of the fibroma of the tendon sheath and a brief review of the literature are presented.

Giant cell tumors of the tendon sheaths in the hand: review of 96 patients with an average follow-up of 12 years

INTRODUCTION

Giant cell tumors (GCT) of the hand are relatively common and have a good prognosis, but the risk of recurrence is high. The goal of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical results of a consecutive series of patients and to determine the risk factors for recurrence.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 96 patients (57 women, 39 men) operated between February 1982 and October 2005 for GCT of the tendon sheaths in the hand. The average age at the time of the procedure was 47.7±14.5 years (range 13-75). All the patients were reviewed by an independent surgeon. The following were recorded: clinical result (QuickDASH, satisfaction), recurrence, histological appearance of tumor, location of tumor, excision margins and extension into the neighboring anatomical structures (tendon, joint). The tumor was located in the index finger in 29 cases, middle finger in 23 cases, thumb in 21 cases, ring finger in 11 cases, little finger in 11 cases, hypothenar area in two cases and thenar area in one case. In all cases, the lesion was isolated. The swelling was palmar in 27 cases, dorsal in 20 cases and medial or lateral in 59 cases. The most common joint location was the DIP joint (35% of cases). The swollen area was sensitive in 12 cases. The time from the appearance of the tumor to physician consultation ranged between 1 month and 7 years. Before the surgery, standard X-rays were taken in all patients; ultrasonography was also performed in eight patients and MRI in one patient. The tumor had an average diameter of 15.8±2.6mm (range 5-30). Histological analysis revealed a multilobed lesion with multinucleated giant cells, with or without encapsulation.

RESULTS

The average follow-up at the time of review was 12.1±3.8 years (range 5-29). There were eight recurrences in seven patients (8.3%). The average time to recurrence was 2.75±2 years (range 1-6.5). In every case of recurrence, there had been intra-articular tumor development and/or tendon destruction (P<0.01). There was one functional complication: one DIP joint fusion secondary to one of the recurrences. The average QuickDASH was 2.3/100 (range 0-31).

CONCLUSION

Giant cell tumors of the synovial sheaths in the hand are benign lesions where recurrence is the primary risk. The recurrence typically occurred within 36 months of the excision. Intra-articular tumor development, marginal resection and tendon involvement seem to contribute to recurrence. There was no correlation found between the histological type of tumor (encapsulated or not) and recurrence.

LEVEL OF PROOF

IV.

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath mimicking a primary intramedullary metatarsal tumor

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) is one of the most common benign soft tissue tumors in the extremities, and is frequently associated with bone abnormalities. Although extrinsic bone erosion is the most common bone abnormality associated with GCTTS, intraosseous invasion of GCTTS occurs rarely and may mimic a primary bone tumor, making diagnosis more challenging. We report an unusual imaging presentation of GCTTS mimicking a primary intramedullary metatarsal tumor and review the literature on the frequency of bone involvement of GCTTS.

Tumours and pseudotumours of the soft tissue in adults: perspectives and current role of sonography

Soft tissue tumours of the musculoskeletal system are reported relatively frequently. The quality of the information gained from different imaging modalities (Doppler sonography, multislice CT, MRI spectroscopy, and diffusion MRI) means that in a growing number of situations, we can envisage determining with great accuracy not only the usual information of tumour size and topography, but often the exact nature of the tissue, almost always identifying whether a lesion is aggressive or not. Of all these techniques, Doppler sonography has become the most widely used due to the striking improvements in its sensors, especially for superficial applications. Some other recent developments are: panoramic imaging, elastography (although its current contribution is still to be determined but it seems to offer promising potential), and, most importantly, specific contrast agents. These techniques have considerably refined the quality of the information obtained, and have particularly enhanced the degree of sensitivity with which lesion progression can be assessed. Ultrasonography is the very first investigation in our protocol. It is also very often used to close investigations, as it accurately guides core needle biopsy from these generally accessible lesions. The purpose of this article is to bring together updated information on the various collections of sonographic features seen in soft tissue tumours and pseudotumours and to emphasise the considerable contributions of these new technological developments, in particular contrast-enhanced sonography. The discussion will follow the World Health Organisation's anatomical pathology classifications of soft tissue tumours. We will close with a synthesis that summarises the main steps in our diagnostic process.

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath in the foot and ankle: case series and review of the literature

Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath (GCT-TS) in the foot and ankle has been reported as rare. The purpose of the present study was to describe 20 cases of GCT-TS in the foot and ankle treated in the orthopedic department of Huashan Hospital. From January 2007 to January 2012, a retrospective review was performed of 20 cases of GCT-TS in the foot and ankle, all of which were treated by local excision, including both arthroscopy and local excision. The follow-up of all cases was 3 months to 5 years. Of the 20 patients, 14 were female and 6 were male, with a mean age of 38.7 (range 15 to 59) years. Seventeen presented with a painless, solitary, well-defined soft tissue mass with good or poor mobility. Three had discomfort on weightbearing, because the mass was on the plantar aspect of the foot. One patient had neurologic symptoms. A correct preoperative diagnosis was made in only 5 cases. Magnetic resonance imaging proved to be the most useful noninvasive preoperative investigation, because GCT-TS has a characteristic appearance that allows for planned local excision to be performed. Four cases recurred after surgical excision, for a recurrence rate of 20%. After reviewing the published data and comparing them with our results, we concluded that a definite preoperative diagnosis of GCT-TS in the foot and ankle would help in planning the surgical treatment and that complete local excision is probably the only method to prevent recurrence.

Imaging characteristics of tenosynovial and bursal chondromatosis

OBJECTIVES

Our purpose was to identify imaging characteristics of tenosynovial and bursal chondromatosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 25 pathologically confirmed cases of tenosynovial (n = 21) or bursal chondromatosis (n = 4). Patient demographics and clinical presentation were reviewed. Imaging was evaluated by two musculoskeletal radiologists with agreement by consensus, including radiography (n = 21), bone scintigraphy (n = 1), angiography (n = 1), ultrasonography (n = 1), CT (n = 8), and MR (n = 8). Imaging was evaluated for lesion location/shape, presence/number of calcifications, evidence of bone involvement, and intrinsic characteristics on ultrasonography/CT/MR.

RESULTS

Average patient age was 44 years (range 7 to 75 years) with a mild male predilection (56%). A slowly increasing soft tissue mass was the most common clinical presentation (53%). Lesion locations included the foot (n = 8), hand (n = 6), shoulder (n = 3), knee (n = 2), ankle (n = 2) and one each in the upper arm, forearm, wrist, and cervical spine. All lesions were located in a known tenosynovial (21 cases, 84%) or bursal (four cases, 16%) location. All cases of bursal chondromatosis were round/oval in shape. Tenosynovial lesions were fusiform (65%) or round/oval (35%). Radiographs commonly showed a soft tissue mass (86%) and calcification (90%). Calcifications were predominantly chondroid (79%) or osteoid (11%) in character with >10 calcified bodies in 48%. CT detected calcifications in all cases. The intrinsic characteristics of the nonmineralized component showed low attenuation on CT (75%), high signal intensity on T2-weighted MR (76%) and a peripheral/septal contrast enhancement pattern (100%).

CONCLUSIONS

Imaging of tenosynovial and bursal chondromatosis is often characteristic with identification of multiple osteochondral calcifications (90% by radiographs; 100% by CT). CT and MR also revealed typical intrinsic characteristics of chondroid tissue and lesion location in a known tendon sheath or bursa.

Giant cell tumor of the flexor tendon of the wrist: US and MRI evaluation. Case report

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) is a benign proliferative lesion of synovial origin that may affect the joints, bursae and tendon sheaths. We report the case of a giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath arising from the carpal tunnel of the wrist in a 47-year-old woman. The patient underwent ultrasound (US) examination and subsequently magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Imaging of giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath

Giant cell tumours of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) and pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) are part of a spectrum of benign proliferative lesions of synovial origin that may affect the joints, bursae and tendon sheaths. This review article describes the clinicopathological features and imaging findings in patients with GCTTS. GCTTS usually presents as a soft tissue mass with pressure erosion of the underlying bone. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of GCTTS typically shows low to intermediate signal on T1- and T2-weighted spin-echo sequences due to the presence of haemosiderin, which exerts a paramagnetic effect. On gradient-echo sequences, the paramagnetic effect of haemosiderin is further exaggerated, resulting in areas of very low signal due to the blooming artefact. Ultrasonography shows a soft mass related to the tendon sheath that is hypervascular on colour or power Doppler imaging.

Pigmented villonodular synovitis: radiologic-pathologic correlation

Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) represents an uncommon benign neoplastic process that may involve the synovium of the joint diffusely or focally (PVNS) or that may occur extraarticularly in a bursa (pigmented villonodular bursitis [PVNB]) or tendon sheath (pigmented villonodular tenosynovitis [PVNTS]). Pathologic specimens of the hypertrophic synovium may appear villous, nodular, or villonodular, and hemosiderin deposition, often prominent, is seen in most cases. The knee, followed by the hip, is the most common location for PVNS or PVNB, whereas PVNTS occurs most often in the hand and foot. PVNTS is also referred to as giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath (GCTTS). PVNTS is the most common form of this disease by a ratio of approximately 3:1. Radiographs reveal nonspecific features of a joint effusion in PVNS, a focal soft-tissue mass in PVNB or PVNTS, or a normal appearance. Extrinsic erosion of bone (on both sides of the joint) may also be seen and is most frequent with intraarticular involvement of the hip (>90% of cases). Cross-sectional imaging reveals diffuse involvement of the synovium (PVNS), an intimate relationship to the tendon (PVTNS), or a typical bursal location (PVNB), findings that suggest the diagnosis. However, the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings of prominent low signal intensity (seen with T2-weighting) and "blooming" artifact from the hemosiderin (seen with gradient-echo sequences) are nearly pathognomonic of this diagnosis. In addition, MR imaging is optimal for evaluating lesion extent. This information is crucial to guide treatment and to achieve complete surgical resection. Recurrence is more common with diffuse intraarticular disease and is difficult to distinguish, both pathologically and radiologically, from the rare complication of malignant PVNS. Recognizing the appearances of the various types of PVNS, which reflect their pathologic characteristics, improves radiologic assessment and is important for optimal patient management.

Radiological Reasoning:Acutely Painful Swollen Finger

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to review the differential diagnosis of finger masses and their imaging appearances.

CONCLUSION

Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath is a slowly growing, benign tumor of the synovium that commonly presents as a painless nodular mass in the hand or wrist. Also termed "localized nodular tenosynovitis," these tumors are the most common soft-tissue tumors of the hand. Occasionally, these tumors can present with pain when traumatized, and they should be suspected when a firm, rubbery mass is found at the location of a tendon sheath.

Giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath may present radiologically as intrinsic osseous lesions

The purpose of this study was to explain radiographic features of giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath (GCTTS), in particular, osseous extension, by correlating imaging findings with histology in order to increase the accuracy of radiological diagnosis. In a series of 200 consecutive osseous (pseudo) tumors of the hand, on radiography, six patients presented with an intrinsic osseous lesion caused by a histologically confirmed neighboring GCTTS. Available radiographs, computed tomography (CT), and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) images were correlated with histology. Radiography showed osseous lesions consisting of well-defined cortical defects in four (one of whom also demonstrated cortical scalloping) and a slightly expansile, well-defined osteolytic lesion in two patients. MR obtained in four patients showed the extraosseous tumor invading/eroding bone and causing cortical scalloping (three and one patients, respectively). Extension depicted on MR was confirmed on the two available resection specimens. All lesions were polylobular (cauliflower or mushroom like) and neighboring tendon sheaths. Dense collagen and hemosiderin-loaded macrophages explained the high CT attenuation and the low MR signal intensity on T2-weighted images that was observed in all four MR and in all two CT scans. The high density of proliferative capillaries explained the marked enhancement observed in all four patients with gadolinium (Gd)-chelate-enhanced MR imaging. GCTTS is a soft tissue (pseudo) tumor that may invade bone and as a consequence mimick an intrinsic osseous lesion on radiographs. In such cases, specific MR and CT features that can be explained by histological findings can be used to suggest the correct diagnosis.

Giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath involving the thoracic spine

Giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath is a common benign lesion of the synovial membrane that frequently occurs in the hand. It is related to pigmented villonodular synovitis and the occurrence of pigmented villonodular synovitis or giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath in the axial skeleton is very rare. To data, only three cases of giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath involving cervical spine have been reported, compared with 26 cases of pigmented villonodular synovitis. Pigmented villonodular synovitis involving the thoracic spine is also extremely rare and our case represents the first reported case of a giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath involving the thoracic spine. A 26-year-old man presented with left back pain without neurological deficit. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an osteolytic and expansive lesion in the left facet joint between the seventh and eighth thoracic vertebrae. A complete facetectomy and excision of the lesion followed by a posterior arthrodesis between Th5 and Th9 was performed. Postoperatively, the patient recovered with complete relief of symptoms, there was no evidence of recurrent disease or regrowth of the residual lesion, as investigated by plain radiographs and MRI within a follow-up period of two years. Although giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath in the thoracic spine may be extremely uncommon, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially when a benign lesion appears to originate in the face joint. Considering the high rate of recurrence, every effort should be made to achieve total excision.

Imaging of wrist masses

The wrist is a complex structure with an extensive differential diagnosis for a presenting mass. However, the vast majority of hand and wrist masses are benign, and many of these have a distinctive radiographic appearance. In this article, the imaging characteristics of the most common entities are reviewed with particular attention to magnetic resonance appearance. The 3 most common hand and wrist lesions include ganglion cysts, giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath, and hemangiomas. Other common lesions that can be diagnosed radiographically include lipomas, neural sheath tumors, infection and inflammation, and variant soft-tissue or bony structures. The appearance of the fibrolipomatous hamartoma will also be demonstrated because this is a radiographically distinctive, though rare, lesion.

Localized nodular synovitis of the knee: MR imaging appearance and clinical correlates in 21 patients

OBJECTIVE

Localized nodular synovitis of the knee and pigmented villonodular synovitis are similar histologically. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the MR imaging appearance and clinical findings of localized nodular synovitis of the knee and to differentiate this condition from pigmented villonodular synovitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of MR imaging of the knee was performed in 21 patients with histologically confirmed localized nodular synovitis. Surgical excision of the lesion was performed in all patients. The MR imaging appearances of the lesions were defined, and the clinical and surgical findings were reviewed.

RESULTS

All lesions presented as a solitary intraarticular mass. The mass originated from the synovial lining in different locations including the infrapatellar fat pad (n = 14), suprapatellar pouch (n = 5), and posterior aspect of the intercondylar notch (n = 2). A small (2.0-3.5 cm; mean diameter, 2.7 cm) ovoid mass (n = 13) was more common than a large (5.0-9.0 cm; mean diameter, 6.5 cm) polylobulated mass (n = 8). At surgery, a long pedicle attached the mass to the adjacent synovium in two patients, but this was observed on MR imaging in only one patient. The lesions showed intermediate (n = 15) or hyperintense (n = 6) signal intensity on T1-weighted images and heterogeneously high (n = 13) or low (n = 8) signal intensity with variable circular foci of low signal intensity on T2-weighted images. On T2-weighted images, linear regions of high signal intensity within the mass were seen in seven lesions. Prominent enhancement of the lesion with IV contrast administration was shown in all patients who were given contrast material (n = 10). Knee pain, joint swelling, and a palpable mass were the most frequent clinical manifestations. An acutely painful knee was noted in one patient who presented with torsion of an infrapatellar pedicle. Five patients complained of locking of the knee, but at physical examination, restricted terminal knee extension was noted in nine patients.

CONCLUSION

Localized nodular synovitis of the knee predominantly involves the infrapatellar fat pad. It may produce symptoms related to mechanical derangement of the knee. Although there is no typical MR appearance for this lesion, many features help to differentiate it from pigmented villonodular synovitis.

MRI of the wrist

In the past, the diagnostic imaging algorithm for evaluating the painful wrist included initial plain radiographic examination followed by arthrography, tomography, bone scintigraphy, or computed tomography. In recent years, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proven efficacious for diagnosing a number of maladies of the bones, ligaments, and soft tissues. MRI can be of aid in evaluation of carpal instability, disorders of the triangular fibrocartilage, ulnar impaction syndrome, distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability, fracture, avascular necrosis (AVN), tendinopathy, nerve entrapment syndromes, synovial abnormalities, and soft tissue masses.

Recurrent giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath

Seventy patients underwent surgical excision of a giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath. The patients were monitored for an average of 3 years 4 months. Nineteen of the 70 patients (27%) had a surgically and histologically documented recurrence at an average of 2 years 3 months (range, 3 months to 10 years) following the initial procedure. Eight of 19 patients (42%) with recurrence had a prior recurrence. Statistically significant risk factors for recurrence included presence of adjacent degenerative joint disease, location at the distal interphalangeal joint of the finger or interphalangeal joint of the thumb, and radiographic presence of an osseous pressure erosion. Age, gender, size, and location within the digit (volar vs. dorsal) were not risk factors for recurrence. Awareness of these associations should be reflected in the surgeon's approach and preoperative discussion with the patient.

Giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath arising from the posterior cruciate ligament of the knee: a case report and review of the literature

The localized form of a giant-cell tumor of the tendon sheath is uncommon and rarely intraarticular. While the sonographic findings are nonspecific, the magnetic resonance (MR) findings can be diagnostic. Relatively homogeneous iso- or marginal hyperintensity on T2-weighted sequences, lack of susceptibility effects due to hemosiderin, the demonstration of a fibrous capsule and the absence of adjacent joint involvement may help to differentiate localized and diffuse forms of giant-cell tumors of tendon sheaths and pigmented villonodular synovitis.

Multiple new-onset subcutaneous nodules of the upper extremity digits: giant cell tumor of tendon sheath and lipoma

A black woman with the concurrent onset of two subcutaneous nodules located on the digits of her upper extremities is described. Initially, a single systemic disorder was considered; yet, the lesions differed in morphology and consistency. Microscopic examination of the nodules showed a giant cell tumor of tendon sheath and a lipoma. Although Occam's "razor" suggests that multiple lesions in the same person are more likely to represent variable manifestations of a single disorder than several different diseases in that individual, the simultaneously appearing lesions in this patient represented two different conditions.

Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath

The authors present two case studies of giant cell tumor of tendon sheath. This uncommon lesion of the lower extremity is presented in these two cases in correlation with clinical, radiographic, and intraoperative findings. After the pathologic diagnosis was made, the patient in the first case decided not to have the tumor resected. This patient's postoperative course continues uneventfully without expansion of the tumor. In the second case, a local recurrence was noted 13 months after en bloc resection. A review of the literature shows that treatment modalities for such lesions range from marginal excision to radiation therapy. The authors wish to emphasize the high risk of local recurrence of these tumors. Early marginal resection is the treatment of choice.