The Evaluation and Management of Lung Metastases in Patients with Giant Cell Tumors of Bone in the Denosumab Era

Abstract

Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) is characterized by uncertain biological behavior due to its local aggressiveness and metastasizing potential. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of the contemporary literature to evaluate all management strategies for GCTB metastases. A combination of the terms “lung metastases”, “giant cell tumor”, “bone”, “treatment”, and “oncologic outcomes” returned 133 patients meeting our inclusion criteria: 64 males and 69 females, with a median age of 28 years (7–63), at the onset of primary GCTB. Lung metastases typically occur at a mean interval of 26 months (range: 0–143 months) after treatment of the primary site, commonly presenting as multiple and bilateral lesions. Various treatment approaches, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and drug administration, were employed, while 35 patients underwent routine monitoring only. Upon a mean follow-up of about 7 years (range: 1–32 years), 90% of patients were found to be alive, while 10% had died. Death occurred in 25% of patients who had chemotherapy, whereas 96% of those not treated or treated with Denosumab alone were alive at a mean follow-up of 6 years (range: 1–19 years). Given the typically favorable prognosis of lung metastases in patients with GCTB, additional interventions beyond a histological diagnosis confirmation may not be needed. Denosumab, by reducing the progression of the disease, can play a pivotal role in averting or delaying lung failure.