Spontaneous resolution of proximal humerus sessile osteochondroma: A report of case and literature review

Abstract

Key Clinical Message In managing a child with a solitary osteochondroma, the most advisable course of action involves vigilant observation and regular follow‐up, given the potential for spontaneous resolution. Abstract The most frequent benign cartilage tumors in children are osteochondromas, which develop when the growth plate herniates during bone development. Treatment depends on the symptoms, with asymptomatic cases requiring monitoring and symptomatic patients requiring surgical intervention. Rarely, an asymptomatic osteochondroma may spontaneously disappear. We report the case of a 3‐year‐old male who presented with left arm swelling and pain due to trauma while playing football. X‐rays revealed a proximal humerus posterolateral sessile osteochondroma. After 6 months of observation, the boy tolerated activity and had no pain. Five years later, the osteochondroma was resolved spontaneously both clinically and radiologically. Our study suggests that annual observation of child patients with osteochondroma is more effective than surgical intervention due to the possibility of spontaneous resolution.

Keywords

• osteochondroma
• pediatric
• spontaneous resolution
• x‐ray