Also called osteocartilaginous exostoses, osteochondroma is an overgrowth of cartilage and bone near the end of the bone near the growth plate. This type of overgrowth can occur in any bone where cartilage eventually forms bone. Most commonly, it affects the long bones in the leg, the pelvis, or scapula (shoulder blade). Osteochondroma is the most common benign (non-cancerous) bone growth. The lesion usually occurs during skeletal growth - between the ages of 10 and 30 years. It affects males and females equally.
What causes osteochondroma?
While the exact cause of osteochondroma is not known, there is a genetic link, indicating that there is a form of the disorder that is inherited. There is also a non-inherited form of the disorder.
Treatment for osteochondroma:
Specific treatment for osteochondroma will be determined by your physician based on:
• your age, overall health, and medical history • extent of the disease • your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, and therapies • expectation for the course of the disease • your opinion or preference
