Primary hyperparathyroidism diagnosed after surgical ablation of a costal mass mistaken for giant-cell bone tumor: a case report

• Main Authors: Vera Lara, Dolcino Mara, Mora Marco, Oddo Silvia, Gualco Marina, Minuto Francesco, Giusti Massimo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2011-12-01
• Series: Journal of Medical Case Reports
• Online Access: http://www.jmedicalcasereports.com/content/5/1/596

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common endocrine disorder characterized by elevated parathyroid hormone levels, which cause continuous osteoclastic bone resorption. Giant cell tumor of bone is an expansile osteolytic tumor that contains numerous osteoclast-like giant cells. There are many similarities in the radiological and histological features of giant cell tumor of bone and brown tumor. This is a rare benign focal osteolytic process most commonly caused by hyperparathyroidism.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>We report the unusual case of a 40-year-old Caucasian woman in which primary hyperparathyroidism was diagnosed after surgical ablation of a costal mass. The mass was suspected of being neoplastic and histopathology was compatible with a giant cell tumor of bone. On the basis of the biochemical results (including serum calcium, phosphorous and intact parathyroid hormone levels) primary hyperparathyroidism was suspected and a brown tumor secondary to refractory hyperparathyroidism was diagnosed.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Since giant cell tumor is a bone neoplasm that has major implications for the patient, the standard laboratory tests in patients with bone lesions are important for a correct diagnosis.</p>