What is a distal femur enchondroma?
Enchondroma is a solitary, benign, intramedullary cartilaginous tumour occurring most commonly in small bones of hands and feet. Distal femur and proximal humerus are other less common locations. Enchondroma consists of 3-10% of all bone tumours, while they constitute 12-24% of benign bone tumours.
Can enchondroma turn into cancer?
Single enchondromas rarely become cancerous, though the chances are a little higher in patients with Ollier’s disease and Maffucci’s syndrome. When enchonromas do become cancerous, they usually become a type of malignant cartilage tumor called a chondrosarcoma.
Is enchondroma malignant?
An enchondroma is a type of benign bone tumor that originates from cartilage. It is not cancerous. It most often affects the cartilage that lines the inside of the bones.
Do enchondromas enhance on MRI?
MRI is useful in evaluating soft tissue extension and for confirming the diagnosis. Enchondromas appear as well-circumscribed somewhat lobulated masses replacing marrow 1. Differentiation of an enchondroma from low-grade chondrosarcoma is problematic, as they can have similar appearances.
What is a distal femur?
The distal femur is where the bone flares out like an upside-down funnel. The distal femur is the area of the leg just above the knee joint.
What causes enchondroma?
The exact cause of enchondroma is not known. However, it is thought to happen due to either of the following: Overgrowth of the cartilage that lines the ends of the bones. Persistent growth of original, embryonic cartilage.
Do benign bone tumors hurt?
Benign bone tumors include: Osteoblastomas, which affect children and adolescents. These tumors can be large, aggressive and painful. They are best treated by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, orthopedic surgeons and pain management specialists.
Can a distal femur fracture heal without surgery?
Very few distal femur fracture patterns and types do not need surgery for the bone to heal. This is because the strength of muscles that pull on the bones trying to pull them apart. Small breaks or those with good overall alignment often can be treated without an operation.