Abstract

Giant cell tumors (GCT) of the bone are uncommon primary bone neoplasms that occur mainly in the epiphyses of long bones. However, GCT with tumoral growth in the cranium is rarely encountered, particularly in the temporal bone. GCT demonstrates benign histological features but is locally aggressive, and surgical excision is the treatment of choice. The authors describe a 31-year-old man who presented with trismus and an extensive GCT, which originated in the petrous and squamous portions of the temporal bone and extended into the left mandibular ramus and middle ear. He was treated by en bloc resection of the tumor by left temporal craniectomy using an extended pterional approach and canal wall down mastoidectomy. In addition to the description of this unusual case of GCT of the temporal bone presenting with trismus, a review of the related literature is included.