GIANT-CELL TUMOR OF METACARPALS - REPORT OF 3 CASES

Giant cell tumour of the metacarpal bone is rare. We have encountered three cases during the last 30 years. Surgical treatment is difficult in such a critical site and is always associated with functional deformities and poor cosmesis. We have successfully treated two males and one female with lesions of the Ist, 2nd and 4th metacarpal bones using a Theratron-60 telecobalt machine. The radiation dose delivered was 50-55 Gy over 4.5-5 weeks. The three patients all tolerated radiotherapy treatment well, though moderate radiation dermatitis (Grade II-III) was seen. The regression of tumour mass started after about 2 months of radiation therapy and complete regression occurred after several months. The pain subsided immediately. Long follow up of 7-11 years revealed no signs of local recurrence, distant metastasis or radiation induced malignancy. The results of radiation therapy are excellent in terms of functional integrity and cosmesis.