Management of elbow dysfunction associated with giant cell tumor of the distal humerus: achieving oncologic safety and good function by a combined reconstruction

Ewing's sarcoma in a young man mimicking lateral elbow pain: A case report with 2 years follow-up

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Lateral elbow pain represents a common musculoskeletal disorder, mostly non-specific and benign. In rare cases, it can be the first symptom of a severe disease such as Ewing's sarcoma (ES). ES is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor in the young population, with a high probability of an unfavourable prognosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case report presents the history of a young man presenting to the physical therapist with a diagnosis of "epicondylitis" in the right elbow, which was later revealed to be an aggressive ES of the ulna. Findings raising clinical doubts were (a) constant pain even at night and not dependent on load, (b) significant loss of function, (c) patient's young age, and (d) a palpable mass in the elbow.

RESULTS

After diagnosis, the patient received medical (chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery) and a rehabilitation program. After treatment, the patient improved elbow function, decreased disability and returned to social participation, maintaining positive outcomes at the 2-year follow-up.

DISCUSSION

In summary, this case report emphasizes the importance of differential diagnosis and screening for referral of red flags in physical therapy. Moreover, it describes the rehabilitation of a patient with ES, enriching the scientific literature in the field.

Grade 3 Giant Cell Tumour of the Distal Humeral Epiphysis Treated with Intralesional Curettage, High Speed Burring and Bone Grafting: A Case Report

Giant cell tumours of bone are benign but locally aggressive neoplasms involving the epi- and metaphysis of long bones. Tumours of the distal humeral epiphysis with cortical disruption and invasion into the joint and the soft tissues are rare and generally treated with wide resection and joint reconstruction. We present the case of a 19-year-old woman in whom such a tumour was successfully treated with intralesional curettage, high speed burring and autologous bone grafting. The patient underwent regular clinical and radiological follow-up. Ten years after the procedure she had no signs of tumour recurrence or degenerative changes, and she was pain free and had a normal elbow function.