Osteochondroma
Synonyms: MHE, exostoses
Most common bone tumour
Quick Facts
Behaviour
Benign
Category
Bone
Synonyms
- MHE
- exostoses
Category
Bone
Behaviour
Benign
Gender
Male
Tissue of Origin
Cartilage
Epidemiology
- Most common Bone tumour overall
- Peak incidence childhood to early adulthood
- Solitary or multiple (hereditary multiple exostoses)
- EXT gene mutations in HME
Clinical Features
- Bony protuberance
- Usually asymptomatic
- Pain if compressing adjacent structures
- Limb length discrepancy in HME
Location
- Femur (most common)
- Tibia
- Humerus
- Pelvis
- Other long bones
Imaging
- Plain radiograph: bony exostosis with Cartilage cap
- MRI: assess Cartilage cap thickness and underlying lesion
- Ultrasound: measure Cartilage cap
Pathology
- Cartilage-capped bony exostosis
- Hyaline Cartilage cap with endochondral ossification beLow
Genetics
EXT1/2 mutations in hereditary form
Treatment
- Observation for asymptomatic lesions
- Surgical excision if symptomatic or cartilage cap >2 cm
Prognosis
Benign: Malignant transformation rate <1% for solitary, 1-5% for HME
Key Points
- Most common bone tumour
- HME carries malignancy risk
- Monitor cartilage cap size on imaging
Workup - Blood Tests
No blood tests required
Workup - Local Imaging
- Plain radiograph
- MRI: assess Cartilage cap and monitor for malignancy
Workup - Biopsy
Not required unless malignancy concern
Workup - Staging
No staging required
Workup - Other
- Genetic counselling for HME
- Surveillance imaging for multiple lesions/HME
Follow-up Summary
- 1
Observation asymptomatic lesions
- 2
Resection for symtomaitc lesions. Post-operative follow-up at 6 weeks followed by supported discharge
- 3
Annual surveillance for MHE patints
Medical disclaimer
The content on Sarcopedia is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a qualified physician regarding any health concerns or before starting any new treatment. Reliance on any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk.