Osteochondromatosis

Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Due to a beaked failure of constriction with cortical overgrowth adjacent to the growth plate with subsequent eccentric bony growth from this beak in a direction away from the joint forming a tumor like excrescence that continues to grow until the growth plate closes. It is the most common skeletal tumor in childhood. Malignant degeneration occurs in 2-10% of cases, and should be suspected if there is rapid increase in size of an exostosis, especially in an adult.

Pathology:
Not applicable

Imaging Findings:
Most frequently seen in long tubular bones such as the distal femur, proximal tibia, proximal ulna, proximal femur, and distal forearm. Appears as a cystic excrescence projecting away sfrom the metaphysis that has its axis pointing away from the joint.

DDX:

• Enchondromatosis (fewer and smaller exostoses)
• Solitary enchondromas
• Fibrodysplasia ossificans
• Dyschondrosteosis

References:

• Thoracopedia

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See related Provider Topics Bone Cancer, Bones, Joints and Muscles or Cancers.

See related Patient Topics Bones, Joints and Muscles or Cancers.

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