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Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumour (TGCT)

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Posted by | Jun 25, 2025

What is Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumour (TGCT)?

Tenosynovial giant cell tumour (TGCT) is a non-cancerous (benign) growth that forms near a joint or tendon sheath (the covering around tendons). It is a type of soft tissue tumour characterised by an overgrowth of the synovial lining. It usually causes swelling, pain, or stiffness in the affected joint.

There are two main types:

  1. Localised TGCT: Small, slow-growing, often in fingers or hands.
  2. Diffuse TGCT: Larger, more aggressive, usually in big joints like the knee, hip, or shoulder.

Causes

The exact cause is not known, but possible reasons include:

  • A genetic mutation that causes abnormal cell growth.
  • In some cases, repeated joint injury or irritation might play a role.
  • It is not caused by an infection and not contagious.

Risk Population

  • Usually affects young adults between 20–50 years old.
  • It can happen in men and women, but the diffuse type is more common in younger adults.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Swelling near a joint (usually painless at first).
  • Joint pain, stiffness, or trouble moving the joint.
  • A lump or bump that may grow slowly.
  • In diffuse TGCT, symptoms can be more severe and longer-lasting.

Diagnosis

It is done by following tests:

  • Physical exam to feel the lump and check joint movement.
  • MRI scan to see the size and location of the tumour.
  • X-ray to check if any bone is involved.
  • Sometimes a biopsy (small tissue sample) is taken to confirm it.

Treatment

For Localised TGCT, Surgery is usually done to remove the tumour. Most people recover well, and it rarely comes back.

For Diffuse TGCT, Surgery is more complex and may involve removing more tissue. If it grows back or is hard to remove, Radiation therapy may be used to stop it from growing. Newer medicines like targeted therapy (e.g., pexidartinib) can help shrink the tumour.

Prognosis

TGCT is not cancer, so it doesn’t spread to other body parts. Localised TGCT usually has an excellent outcome after surgery. Diffuse TGCT can be more difficult, but treatment helps manage symptoms. Regular follow-up is important to check for regrowth.

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