Radiology features of giant cell tumors of the skull / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To analyze the CT and MRI features of giant cell tumors of the skull. Methods 8 cases of giant cell tumors of the skull proven surgically and pathologically were analyzed retrospectively. CT and MRI(6 cases with post contrast CT and 5 cases with post contrast MRI scans)were performed in all cases. All tumors were excised surgically. Two weeks later,all patients undertook postoperative radiotherapy with the dosage of 4 500-6 000 cGy for five to six weeks. Results CT scan showed bone destruction and calcification. Most of the tumours were well defined with low signal intensities on T1 WI images, T2 WI images showed ununiformity signal. The low signal on T1 WI was still low signal intensity on T2 WI which suggested calcification. All patients had no distinctive change within the follow up period. Conclusion CT is able to clearly show bone destruction and calcification. MRI is superior to CT in demonstrating the outlines of the tumours. CT and MRI are effective methods in the diagnosis of the giant cell tumors. Surgery and postoperative radiotherapy are effective methods in the treatment of the giant cell tumors.