Hereditary Benign Osteochondromas: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hereditary benign chondroma?

I have inherited extra bones from my ancestors, and since childhood, I have had these additional bones.
During middle school, I went to Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for an examination, and the result was "hereditary benign chondroma." The chondromas are located at the junction of my thigh and knee, as well as in my wrist.
At that time, the doctor mentioned that if it didn't affect my daily life during my growth, it was not a concern.
However, I am now 34 years old, and sometimes when I stand, I experience a tingling sensation in my right foot.
Could the extra bone be compressing a nerve? I would like to ask which specialty I should consult, or if you could recommend a physician for me to see.

Fang Da Shan Ren, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/31

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, if it is an osteochondroma, it generally stops growing after puberty and should not compress nerves.
Additionally, the location where osteochondromas grow near the knee joint is not along the path of the nerves.
Numbness in the lower limbs is likely related to nerve or blood circulation issues.
It would be advisable to consult with orthopedic and vascular specialists.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2015/12/31

More Info

Hereditary benign osteochondromas are benign bone tumors that typically develop during childhood and adolescence. They are characterized by the presence of extra bone growths, often referred to as osteochondromas, which can occur near the growth plates of long bones, such as the femur (thigh bone) and the radius (forearm bone). These tumors are usually painless and asymptomatic, but as you have experienced, they can sometimes lead to complications, especially if they impinge on surrounding structures, such as nerves or blood vessels.

Symptoms of Osteochondromas
The symptoms associated with osteochondromas can vary depending on their size and location. Common symptoms may include:
1. Pain or Discomfort: Although many osteochondromas are asymptomatic, they can cause pain if they press against nerves, muscles, or other structures. This pain may be exacerbated during physical activities or when standing for prolonged periods.

2. Numbness or Tingling: As you mentioned experiencing a "numb" sensation in your right foot, this could indicate that the osteochondroma is compressing a nearby nerve. This is particularly concerning if the numbness persists or worsens.

3. Limited Range of Motion: Depending on the location of the osteochondroma, it may restrict movement in the affected joint.

4. Visible Bump: In some cases, osteochondromas can be palpable as a hard lump under the skin.

Diagnosis and Evaluation
To evaluate your condition further, it would be advisable to consult with an orthopedic surgeon, particularly one who specializes in bone tumors or musculoskeletal disorders. They can perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to assess the size and impact of the osteochondromas on surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options
The management of osteochondromas largely depends on the symptoms and complications they cause:
1. Observation: If the osteochondromas are not causing significant symptoms or complications, a "watchful waiting" approach may be appropriate. Regular follow-ups with imaging can help monitor any changes.

2. Physical Therapy: If you are experiencing discomfort or limited mobility, physical therapy may help strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve function.

3. Surgical Intervention: If the osteochondromas are causing significant pain, nerve compression, or functional impairment, surgical removal may be indicated. This is particularly true if the growths are large or if they are affecting your quality of life.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications may help manage discomfort associated with osteochondromas.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given your symptoms of numbness in your right foot, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Nerve compression can lead to more severe complications if not addressed. An orthopedic surgeon will be able to assess whether the osteochondromas are indeed the cause of your symptoms and recommend an appropriate course of action.

Conclusion
In summary, hereditary benign osteochondromas can lead to complications such as nerve compression, which may explain the numbness you are experiencing. Consulting with an orthopedic specialist is the best course of action to evaluate your condition and discuss potential treatment options. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

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