# Case Report: Rare diffuse giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath in the cervical facet joint

## TL;DR

A rare case of aggressive diffuse giant cell tumor in the cervical spine is reported, highlighting its challenges in diagnosis and treatment.

## Contribution

Presentation of an exceptionally rare and invasive case of diffuse GCTTS in the cervical spine with clinical and therapeutic insights.

## Key findings

- Diffuse GCTTS in the cervical spine is extremely rare and highly invasive.
- Surgical resection is the preferred treatment but recurrence rates remain high.
- Imaging and clinical features are critical for diagnosis and management.

## Abstract

Giant Cell Tumor of the Tendon Sheath (GCTTS) is a rare neoplasm that can exhibit local aggressiveness but is generally benign. GCTTS is commonly classified into two subtypes: localized and diffuse, and rarely affects the axial skeleton. Diagnosing GCTTS in the spine is challenging, and it is associated with localized pain and neurological symptoms. Surgical resection is now the preferred treatment, though recurrence rates remain high. This report describes an exceptionally rare case of rapidly progressive and extensively invasive diffuse GCTTS affecting the lateral joints, surrounding vasculature, and nerves of the cervical spine. We also review the clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, and therapeutic outcomes of spinal GCTTS to enhance understanding and awareness of this rare pathology.