総説 骨巨細胞腫について

Abstract

Giant cell tumors are uncommon neoplasms of bone. They are characterized histologically by a vascularized network of spindle-shaped or ovoid stromal cells interspersed with multinucleated giant cells. The tumor is not an entirely benign growth. The etiology and pathogenesis of this tumor have not been defined. We have already reported that 28-55% of mononuclear cells in giant cell tumors have the typical characteristics and functions of macrophages (British Journal of Cancer, 40, 201-209, 1979). The nature of giant cells in giant cell tumors of bone is investigated by cytological and immunological methods, and reported herein. The giant cells in this disease have very similar characteristics to macrophages. It is considered that macrophages may be precursors of giant cells in giant cell tumor of bone, and giant cells may be formed through cell fusion. We also discuss the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment for this tumor.