However, even benign giant cell tumors may implant at distant sites, especially in the lungs. On plain films, giant cell tumors appear as mildly expansile, lytic epiphyseal lesions extending into the metaphyses and which almost always abut an articular surface. They typically are eccentric in location, and appear to be centered in the epiphysis after the physeal plate has closed. Occurrence in other locations is rare. They often have a fine trabecular pattern.
Periosteal reaction is atypical.