Intraosseous growth of giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath (localized nodular tenosynovitis) of the digits: report of 15 cases.

Giant cell tumors of tendon sheath are common soft tissue lesions affecting the digits, sometimes causing pressure atrophy of an adjoining bone and rarely perforating the cortex to expand into the medullary canal. One hundred thirty-three cases of giant cell tumors of tendon sheath were retrospectively reviewed; 15 (11%) showed cortical perforation and intraosseous expansion. Radiographic features, diagnoses, and surgical treatment are described. The use of soft tissue radiographic techniques and mammographic films was an extremely valuable diagnostic tool, although computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging may be necessary in some cases.