What is a Malignant Giant Cell Tumor of The Tendon Sheath?
Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath is a slowly growing painless synovial tumor 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 Etiology (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 tumor.Disease Epidemiology
The malignant giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath is the 2nd most common tumor 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 tumor masses can cause numbness of the affected region
- The large tumor 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 tumor.
- Tumor biopsy
- Histo-pathological examination
Treatment
Surgical resection (surgical removal of the tumor part of the skin along with the removal of some surrounding healthy tissues) of the tumor and the systemic pharmacotherapy with the drug Pexidartinib are the main treatment option.What Support can we Give for Malignant Giant Cell Tumor of The Tendon Sheath?
Malignant Giant Cell Tumor 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 Tumor 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!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
