Enchondroma is a type of benign bone tumor belonging to the group of cartilage tumors. There may be no symptoms, or it may present typically in the short tubular bones of the hands with a swelling, pain or pathological fracture. Diagnosis is by X-ray, CT scan and sometimes MRI. Most occur as a less than three centimetre size single tumor. When several occur in one long bone or several bones, the syndrome is called enchondromatosis. Where there are no symptoms, treatment is often not needed. If treatment is required, curettage may be performed. Less than 1% become malignant, unless part of a syndrome. They comprise around 30% of cartilage tumors. 90% of tumors in the hand are enchondromas.

Symptoms and signs

Individuals with an enchondroma often have no symptoms at all. The following are the most common symptoms of an enchondroma. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: The symptoms of enchondroma may resemble other medical conditions or problems.

Associated conditions

An enchondroma may occur as an individual tumor or several tumors. The conditions that involve multiple lesions include the following:

Cause

While the exact cause of enchondroma is not known, it is believed to occur either as an overgrowth of the cartilage that lines the ends of the bones, or as a persistent growth of original, embryonic cartilage.

Pathophysiology

Enchondroma is a type of benign bone tumor that originates from cartilage. The exact etiology of it is not known. An enchondroma most often affects the cartilage that lines the inside of the bones. The bones most often involved with this benign tumor are the miniature long bones of the hands and feet. It may, however, also involve other bones such as the femur, humerus, or tibia. While it may affect an individual at any age, it is most common in adulthood. The occurrence between males and females is equal. It is not very likely that the enchondroma will grow back in the same spot; the rate is less than ten percent.

Diagnosis

Because an individual with an enchondroma has few symptoms, diagnosis is sometimes made during a routine physical examination, or if the presence of the tumor leads to a fracture. In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for enchondroma may include the following: Differentiating an enchondroma from a bone infarct on plain film may be difficult. Generally, an enchondroma commonly causes endosteal scalloping while an infarct will not. An infarct usually has a well-defined, sclerotic serpentine border, while an enchondroma will not. When differentiating an enchondroma from a chondrosarcoma, the radiographic image may be equivocal; however, periostitis is not usually seen with an uncomplicated enchondroma.

Treatment

Specific treatment for enchondroma is determined by a physician based on the age, overall health, and medical history of the patient. Other considerations include: Treatment may include: If there is no sign of bone weakening or growth of the tumor, observation only may be suggested. However, follow-up with repeat x-rays may be necessary. Some types of enchondromas can develop into malignant, or cancerous, bone tumors later. Careful follow-up with a physician may be recommended.