How is TENOSYNOVIAL GIANT CELL TUMOR (TGCT) treated?
TGCT is often treated with surgery. Doctors may also recommend an active surveillance approach to monitor disease progression.
Surgery isn’t right for everyone, and not all tumors can be removed. The risk of recurrence is high for people who have diffuse TGCT or have had recurrence after surgery.
Each additional surgery increases risks of complications and other health challenges.
Recurrence can cause people to get stuck in a cycle of surgeries that interrupts their lives, so it's important to consider the risks and benefits of each treatment when choosing a path forward.
DIFFUSE TGCT RECURRENCE RATE
up to
72
%
The good news?
You have more options beyond surgery.
Oral prescription options are available
The choice between surgery and prescription treatment is up to you and your doctor
The decision can be made based on physical or non‑physical reasons
Radiation is usually not recommended since there is limited evidence to support its usage
Active surveillance may be recommended for those without symptoms
When discussing your treatment options, ask your care team about:
How well the treatment shrinks tumors, and improves symptoms like pain and stiffness
If the treatment improves joint mobility or ability for everyday tasks
Any side effects, and how the treatment fits into your daily life
The choice between surgery and prescription treatment is up to you and your doctor
The decision can be made based on physical or non‑physical reasons
Radiation is usually not recommended since there is limited evidence to support its usage
Active surveillance may be recommended for those without symptoms
How well the treatment shrinks tumors, and improves symptoms like pain and stiffness
If the treatment improves joint mobility or ability for everyday tasks
Any side effects, and how the treatment fits into your daily life
BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE FOR WHAT'S BEST FOR YOUR TGCT
Living with the burden of TGCT doesn't have to be your only option. Ask for a referral to a center with a multidisciplinary care team of oncologists, orthopedic oncologists, radiologists, physical therapists, and others that treat TGCT or similar diseases at the time of diagnosis. Then you can work with the team to help create an individualized care plan that's right for you.
Since TGCT is rare, not all doctors have encountered it—so it's important to speak with an oncologist or TGCT treater for guidance.
