Pigmented villonodular synovitis therapy with MSCF-1 inhibitors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath and pigmented villonodular synovitis are synovial-based diseases that are generally treated by surgery. For aggressive and recurrent tumors, treatment alternatives are needed. This review explores a targeted therapeutic strategy. RECENT FINDINGS: Imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, blocks expression of colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) by a small subpopulation of tumor cells that recruit CSF1-bearing nonneoplastic cells. Limited clinical data support the efficacy and side effect profile of imatinib in stabilizing disease in most patients. SUMMARY: Imatinib along with other such inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies to CSF1R are putative drugs that may play an important role in the treatment of these tumors.