Regression of giant cell tumor of the cervical spine with bisphosphonate as single therapy

A case report. To describe a case of regression of a giant cell tumor (GCT) of the cervical spine, which was treated with zoledronic acid as single therapy. Bisphosphonates are antiresorptive drugs used in patients with myeloma and bone metastases to treat pain and skeletal events. Despite the emerging evidence of antitumoral effects in adjuvant therapy for GCT of bone, the use of bisphosphonates as a single agent has not been described. Case study with follow-up examination and radiological control 36 months after the beginning of therapy. A review of the literature is also provided. The imaging data at admission evidenced an extensive osteolytic lesion on C5 and C6 vertebral bodies. An open biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of GCT. It was decided to immobilize the cervical spine with rigid collar and to start monthly intravenous zoledronic acid. The subsequent clinical and radiological follow-up during 3 years revealed a marked regression of the lesion. The use of a bisphosphonate agent for GCT of the cervical spine showed potential therapeutic benefits as previously described for other osteolytic disorders. This finding could lead to further investigation on the role and true value of these drugs as possible adjuvants in the management of GCT of bone.