Benign tumours of bone are common in children. Tumours refer to lumps or areas of the bone that have grown tissue other than normal bone.
History, Examination and Xrays are usually enough to make the diagnosis, but MRI, CT scans and biopsy may be required before definitive treatment.
Osteochondroma
One of the most common tumours of bone is an osteochondroma which occurs in growing children especially near the knee, but also near other joints and many other bones. These are usually painless unless knocked, and are diagnosed on plain Xray. Removal of these lesions is performed when they are painful. MRI is useful in painful or rapidly growing lesions to differentiate them from a malignant transformation of an osteochondroma. This is extremely rare in growing children.
Osteoid osteomas
These are also quite common in children and present with severe pain particularly at rest. They are usually found in long bones, but occasionally in the pelvis. They may initially respond well to Non steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, but definitive treatment is Radiofrequency Ablation under CT control.
Simple Bone Cyst
These are very common in children and occur in the upper femur and humerus, as well as other bones. They are prone to pathological fractures and often require surgical management
There are many other benign tumours, but the discussion is outside the scope of this website. I would be happy to discuss any tumour with you at consultation.