Open Access
J Neurol Surg Rep 2012; 73(01): 060-063
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1323158
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Giant Cell Granuloma of the Temporal Bone in a Mixed Martial Arts Fighter

Jennifer Maerki
1   West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lewisburg, West Virginia, United States
,
Nicole D. Riddle
2   Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
,
Jason Newman
3   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
,
Michael A. Husson
2   Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
,
John Y.K. Lee
4   Department of Neurosurgery, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

01 March 2012

21 May 2012

Publication Date:
08 August 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Background and Importance Giant cell granuloma (GCG) is a rare, benign, non-neoplastic lesion of the head and neck. More common in the jaw bones, there have been few reports of the lesion arising in the temporal bone. Initially referred to as a “giant cell reparative granuloma,” due to the previously accepted notion of its nature in attempting to repair areas of injury, the term “giant cell granuloma” is now more frequently used as this lesion has been found in patients without a history of trauma. In addition, several cases with a destructive nature, in contrast to a reparative one, have been observed.

Clinical Presentation We report a case of GCG presenting as a head and neck tumor with dural attachments and extension into the middle cranial fossa in a mixed martial arts fighter.

Conclusion Giant cell granulomas are typically treated surgically and have a good prognosis; however, care must be taken when they present in unusual locations. This case supports the theory of trauma and inflammation as risk factors for GCG.