Introduction:

Giant cell tumors are rarely observed in the thoracic vertebrae. They appear between the ages of 20 and 50, more often in women. The purpose of this case report is to make known the clinical characteristics, the presentation and the treatment used to solve this pathology.

Case presentation:

37-year-old female patient who presented a clinical picture of seven days of dyspnea, cough with white expectoration, high temperature, paraparesis, loss of control in the sphincters and weight loss. High-resolution computed tomography of the thorax showed a right paraspinal mass located in posterior mediastinum at T8-T9 level. Surgical excision of the tumor was decided by right posterolateral thoracotomy at the seventh intercostal space and free surgical margins. The histopathology report described giant cell tumor grade II. The patient did not require chemotherapy and had a satisfactory evolution.

Discussion:

This case has a non-specific presentation, as it shows evidence of pain, tumor and functional impotence of the involved region. Surgery is the best treatment and consists of tumor excision, leaving wide margins to prevent recurrences.

Conclusions:

Giant cell tumors involving the lungs and thoracic vertebrae are underdiagnosed due to their nonspecific symptoms and the limited literature currently available.

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