An osteochondroma is a benign bone growth that usually occurs close to the growth plate of a bone.

Most often, children and teens get them during fast growth phases.

They often show up at the ends of long bones like the femur, tibia, or humerus but can be found in any bone.

Many are symptom-free, but signs can include a visible lump, pain when moving, or limited motion.

Identification usually involves an X-ray, but MRI or CT scans can be used for more detail if needed.

No, it is benign, but in rare cases, it can turn into a malignant chondrosarcoma.

They usually stop growing once the skeleton matures and do not grow in adults.

The exact cause is unclear, but they are believed to stem from abnormal growth of cartilage and bone.

A condition where many osteochondromas are present, often linked to genetics, with a higher risk of issues.

Many don't require treatment if they are symptom-free and not causing problems.

Surgery is needed if the osteochondroma causes pain, restricts movement, or creates cosmetic concerns.

Surgery typically involves removing the growth while keeping nearby structures safe.

Recovery time varies but usually takes several weeks of limited activity.

Risks include infection, damage to nerves or vessels, and the possibility of the growth coming back.

Recurrence is rare but can happen, particularly if the excision was not complete.

Over-the-counter pain relief and rest can help until an evaluation is done.

It generally does not impact overall growth but can potentially affect growth plates in rare instances.

Follow-ups usually involve regular X-rays to look for changes, especially if there are symptoms.

Single osteochondromas are not usually genetic, while multiple osteochondromatosis often has a genetic link.

An osteochondroma grows outwards from a bone, while an enchondroma is a cartilage tumor within the bone marrow.

Though rare, larger osteochondromas can weaken bones, which might increase fracture risk.

No lifestyle change is known to affect their development.

Most are not painful, but pain can happen if they press on nerves or muscles or become irritated.

They can limit movement if they are near a joint or interfere with tendons or muscles.

Yes, osteochondromas can typically be seen on X-rays. are usually seen on X-rays.

Medication is not usually needed unless there is pain to manage.

Physical therapy might assist if there are movement issues or muscle pain.

Quick growth should be checked by a doctor since it could mean it is turning cancerous.

Yes, if they are large, they can push against nearby nerves, leading to pain or numbness.

MRIs are usually not needed unless there is a need to check surrounding soft tissue or exclude cancer.

Pain can come from pressure on tissues, irritation, or if the tumor is in a sensitive area.

Exercise is usually okay, but adjustments may be needed if it causes pain.

Since the cause is mostly unknown, there is no way to prevent them.

Most people continue to live normally with osteochondromas, especially if they have no symptoms.

It appears as a bony growth with a cartilage layer on imaging.

Size can vary; some may be small while others can grow a few centimeters.

They mainly affect long bones but can appear in unexpected areas like the pelvis or shoulder blade.

Having several is less common, often linked to genetic conditions like multiple hereditary exostoses.

There is no known connection between diet changes and osteochondroma growth.

A biopsy is not usually needed for typical osteochondromas but may be done if cancer is suspected.

They can be hereditary in the case of multiple exostoses, but not in solitary cases.

The chance of turning cancerous is very low, less than 1% of cases.

Large osteochondromas may affect posture if they disrupt movement or if they grow on the spine.

Yes, small, symptom-free osteochondromas can often be left alone.

Large osteochondromas causing issues or for appearance are usually removed through surgery.

46. Can osteochondromas be confused with other conditions?

47. What is the cartilage cap on an osteochondroma?

48. Are there support groups for osteochondroma?

49. What is the genetic factor in multiple osteochondromatosis?

See a doctor if you see rapid growth, develop new pain, notice changes in movement, or observe anything unusual.