Management of spinal giant cell tumors

Abstract

Background context: Spinal giant cell tumors (SGCT) remain challenging tumors to treat. Although advancements in surgical techniques and adjuvant therapies have provided new options for treatment, evidence-based algorithms are lacking.

Purpose: This study aims to review the peer-reviewed literature that addresses current treatment options and management of SGCT, to produce an evidence-based treatment algorithm.

Study design/setting: A systematic review was performed.

Methods: Articles published between January 1, 1970 and March 31, 2015 were selected from PubMed and EMBASE searches using keywords "giant cell tumor" AND "spine" AND "treatment." Relevant articles were selected by the authors and reviewed.

Results: A total of 515 studies were identified, of which 81 studies were included. Complete surgical resections of SCGT resulted in the lowest recurrence rates. However, morbidity of en bloc resections is high and in some cases, surgery is not possible. Intralesional resection can be coupled with adjuvant therapies, but evidence-based algorithms for use of adjuvants remain elusive. Several recent advancements in adjuvant therapy may hold promise for decreasing SGCT recurrence, specifically stereotactic radiotherapy, selective arterial embolization, and medical therapy using denosumab and interferon.

Conclusions: Complete surgical resection of SGCT should be the goal when possible, particularly if neurologic impairment is present. Denosumab holds promise as an adjuvant and perhaps stand-alone therapy for SGCT. Spinal giant cell tumors should be approached as a case-by-case problem, as each presents unique challenges. Collaboration of spine surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists is the best practice for treating these difficult tumors.

Keywords: Adjuvant therapy; Denosumab; Giant cell tumor; Mobile spine; Sacrum; Spine tumor.