Giant cell tumor of the temporal bone: two case reports and literature review

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone is a benign tumor originating from undifferentiated mesenchymal cells of the bone marrow. It most commonly arises in the epiphyseal regions of long bones. The skull represents an extremely rare location for GCT. Certain radiologic features involving the temporal or sphenoid bone strongly suggest this diagnosis. Skull GCT is a locally aggressive condition, posing surgical challenges and exposing the patient to a considerable risk of recurrence. In this article, we describe the diagnosis and surgical management of two patients with GCT of the temporal bone. The first patient is a 24-year-old man who presented with progressive left temporal swelling and hearing loss. Computed tomography revealed a 5.6× 4.6× 4.2 cm osteolytic lesion of the left temporal bone. The patient underwent neartotal resection and exhibited no recurrence after 10 years of follow-up. The second patient was a 55-year-old man presenting with gradual hearing loss in the right ear and trismus. Computed tomography showed a 4.7× 4.2× 3 cm temporo-sphenoidal erosive lesion. Complete surgical resection was performed with a favorable outcome and no recurrence.