What is a Malignant Giant Cell Tumour of The Tendon Sheath?
Malignant Giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath is a slowly growing painless synovial tumour within the tendon sheath. It usually affects the hands and fingers, less commonly the foot, ankle, knee, and hip.
What is a Tendon?
A tendon is a structure made up of fibrous connective tissues which attach the muscles to the bones.
What is a Synovial Membrane?
A synovial membrane is a thin membrane of connective tissues that lines the inner surface of joints and tendons.
Disease Aetiology (Causes)
There is no well-known cause; however, certain risk factors such as trauma, impaired lipid metabolism in the body, certain infections, and inflammation are believed to be responsible for the development of the tumour.
Disease Epidemiology
The malignant giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath is the 2nd most common tumour that affects the hands and fingers after ganglion cyst. This usually occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 50 years. It is associated with degenerative joint disease.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Slowly growing hard mass in the hands, fingers, foot, ankle, knee, or hip.
- These masses are usually painless
- In rare cases, these tumour masses can cause numbness in the affected region
- The large tumour mass in the finger joint can impair its function
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis these are
- Diagnostic imaging techniques such as USG, CT scan, MRI, and PET scan can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumor biopsy
- Histopathological examination
Treatment
Surgical resection (surgical removal of the tumour part of the skin along with the removal of some surrounding healthy tissues) of the tumour and the systemic pharmacotherapy with the drug Pexidartinib are the main treatment option.
What Support can we Give for Malignant Giant Cell Tumour of The Tendon Sheath?
Malignant Giant Cell Tumour of The Tendon Sheath is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Malignant Giant Cell Tumour of The Tendon Sheath we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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