Osteochondroma (patient information)
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Maria Fernanda Villarreal, M.D. [2]
Overview
An osteochondroma is a benign (noncancerous) tumor that develops during childhood or adolescence. It is an abnormal growth that forms on the surface of a bone near the growth plate. Growth plates are areas of developing cartilage tissue near the ends of long bones in children. Bone growth occurs around the growth plate, and when a child becomes full-grown, the growth plates harden into solid bone. An osteochondroma is an outgrowth of the growth plate and is made up of both bone and cartilage. As a child grows, an osteochondroma may grow larger, as well.
What are the symptoms of Osteochondroma?
- In many cases, solitary osteochondromas do not cause any symptoms, or symptoms may arise long after tumors develop.
- Osteochondroma is most often diagnosed in patients aged 10 to 20 years.
- Common symptoms osteochondroma include:
What are the causes of Osteochondroma?
The cause of osteochondroma may be related to genetic mutations, such as:
- Germ line mutations in EXT1 and EXT2 genes
Who is at highest risk of Osteochondroma?
- Common risk factors in the development of osteochondromas, include:
- Previous trauma to the growth plate
- Exposure to previous radiation
- Congenital limb anomalies
Diagnosis
In order to diagnose osteochondroma, your doctor will order imaging tests, such as:
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your orthopaedic oncologist if symptoms of osteochondroma develops.
Treatment options
Treatments for osteochondroma, include:
Nonsurgical Treatment
- In most cases of solitary osteochondroma, treatment consists of careful observation over time. Your doctor may want to take regular x-rays to keep track of any changes in the tumor.
Surgical Treatment
- Your doctor may consider surgery if the osteochondroma:
- Causes pain
- Puts pressure on a nerve or blood vessel
- Has a large cap of cartilage
Where to find medical care for Osteochondroma?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Osteochondroma
Prevention of Osteochondroma
There is no primary or secondary prevention for osteochondroma.
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Osteochondroma prognosis is generally regarded good after surgical excision.
Resources
- Osteochondroma. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001230.htm Accessed on January, 26 2016.
- Osteochondroma. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/PDFs/A00079.pdf Accessed on January, 26 2016.