Gorham disease presenting as progressive osteolysis subsequent to a femoral neck fracture in a young patient: A rare case report

Background

Gorham disease is characterized by unexplained osteolysis of bones over a period of several months, with the osteolytic areas being replaced by lymphovascular proliferation. The progression of the disease is unpredictable, as the expansion of the lesions may stop abruptly and regress spontaneously. Gorham disease is very rare and difficult to diagnose.

Case presentation

A 19-year-old male patient was referred to our hospital for further examination of osteolytic lesions after a femoral neck fracture. Histopathological analysis of the first biopsy resulted in the diagnosis of a hemangioma. However, because of progressive osteolysis, a second biopsy was performed; and he was diagnosed with Gorham disease. He underwent a wide resection and total hip arthroplasty. Two years postoperatively, he was able to walk unassisted and he had no signs of recurrence.

Conclusions

When osteolytic lesions are present in young patients, the differential diagnosis should include Gorham disease.