Giant cell tumor of the cervical spine: A very uncommon cause for cervical spine compression

Abstract

Giant cell tumors (GCTs) are rare neoplasms, primarily found in long bones, typically affecting the epiphysis of the distal femur, proximal tibia, and distal radius. However, their occurrence in the cervical spine is exceedingly rare. Here, we present a case report of a 21-year-old female patient who presented with progressive neck pain, radiating numbness, and right hemiparesis. Radiographic imaging revealed a lytic lesion in the C3 vertebral body, further characterized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. The patient underwent surgery for stabilization of the cervico-occipital hinge, decompression, and biopsy. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a giant cell tumor. Postoperatively, the patient showed improvement in motor impairment, cervical pain, and numbness. She was proposed for adjuvant treatment based on Denosumab. However, she returned 1 month after surgery with worsened motor deficit, developing tetraparesis. Control MRI revealed a tumor flare-up. The decision was made not to reoperate on the patient and to accelerate the administration of Denosumab. Meanwhile, she experienced a pulmonary embolism leading to her demise. This case underscores the importance of considering giant cell tumors in the differential diagnosis of cervical spine lesions and emphasizes the successful and prompt management through a multidisciplinary approach involving surgical intervention and adjuvant therapy.