Evaluation of the Patterns of Benign Bone Tumors and Tumor-like Lesions: A Retrospective Survey

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate epidemiology, distribution and radiological features of newly diagnosed benign bone tumors and tumor like lesions in our radiology department. Methods: Computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations performed between January 2018 and December 2019 in musculoskeletal radiology section were retrospectively re-evaluated by an experienced radiologist according to age, gender, radiological classification and location. Results: There were 247 patients (106 females, 141 males) aged between 8 and 64 years (mean age 30.65 ± 15.7 years) with benign bone lesions diagnosed for the first time. Most common diagnosis was osteochondroma seen in 37% of the patients (n: 91). Mean age was 30.18 ± 17.7. There were a male dominance with 57 males (62.6%) and 34 females (37.4%). Respective mean ages for both sexes were 23.92 ± 12 and 39.22 ± 21.2. Lesions were most commonly located around knee joint. 35% of patients (n: 86; 47 female, 39 male) were diagnosed as enchondroma. Mean age was 34.9 ± 13.4. Most common location was femur. Fibrous cortical defects and non-ossifying fibromas, collectively known as fibroxanthoma or metaphyseal fibrous defect, were the third common seen benign bone lesion with a percentage of 18 (n: 45). There were no sex predilection with 21 females and 24 males. Mean age was 25.66 ± 13.7, 51% of cases were seen in femur. Osteoid osteomas were comprised 10% of the cases (n: 25). There was a male predilection (21 males and 4 females) and long tubular bones were most common locations. Other rare lesions were not included into the study for statistical purposes. Conclusion: Knowledge of the properties of benign bone tumors is important. Because they are rarely seen, the diagnosis may be delayed. Benign bone tumours are most frequent in children and young adults, although they may also present in later stages of life. The incidence of benign bone tumours varies depending on the type. The most common type is osteochondroma. Although plain radiography is essential for diagnosis, CT and MRI examinations provide additional information. Treatment is indicated for symptomatic patients and for the patients with a risk of pathological fracture or deformity. In conclusion our findings were overall consistent with the literature.