Giant Cell Tumour of the Tendon Sheath in the Distal Phalanx of the Third Toe

Abstract

Giant cell tumours of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) involving the distal phalanx of the foot are exceedingly rare, with only a few cases reported. We report a case of GCTTS involving the distal phalanx of the middle toe in a 36-year-old female, who presented with a three-year history of an enlarging mass in her right foot with discomfort in shoe wear. While GCTTS was suspected clinically, ultrasonographic evaluation suggested an epidermoid cyst instead. Histological diagnosis of GCTTS was confirmed following surgical excision. Successful toe preservation was achieved and there was no evidence of recurrence at 10 months' follow-up. This case demonstrates the importance of maintaining a high index of clinical suspicion for GCTTS when faced with an enlarging and relatively asymptomatic mass in the toe. A history of trauma is not always obvious. Imaging oftentimes remain equivocal and surgical excision is preferred as it achieves both diagnosis and treatment.

Citation

Tong KS, Chalhoub X, Ng ZY. Giant Cell Tumour of the Tendon Sheath in the Distal Phalanx of the Third Toe. WebLog J Plastic Surg. wjps.2026. g2903. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21845288