Osteomyelitis of Great Toe Masquerades Giant Cell Tumor

Abstract

Giant cell tumor of bone is an uncommon benign but locally aggressive neoplasm that rarely involves the small bones of the feet. We present a case of giant cell tumor involving the distal phalanx of the great toe, emphasizing diagnostic challenges and management strategies. However, its presentation in the distal phalanx of the great toe remains relatively uncommon, presenting diagnostic and management challenges. In addition to it, the patient had done debridement to the same site which resulted in an ulcer that masquerades to have an osteomyelitis beneath it. The patient underwent surgical excision with marginal resection and achieved excellent functional outcomes at follow-up. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of giant cell tumor that projects as an osteomyelitis of great toe and highlights the role of comprehensive imaging and tissue diagnosis in guiding definitive surgical management.