Giant Cell Reparative Granuloma of the Distal Phalanx: A Review of Osteolytic Lesions of the Phalanges and Their Radiologic Differential Diagnosis

Giant. cell reparative granuloma (GCRG) is a nonneoplastic lesion that mimics several benign and malignant abnormalities on imaging studies. The diagnosis of GCRG should be considered in the radiologic differential diagnosis of osteolysis of the distal phalanx. Treatment usually involves currettage, which sometimes needs to be repeated. We highlight 3 cases of GCRG of small tubular bones of the hand, 2 involving the distal phalanx of the middle finger and 1 in the middle phalanx. We also review osteolytic lesions of the phalanges. Awareness of the diagnosis of GCRG helps to plan optimal treatment.