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Massive osteolysis (Gorham's disease) affecting the femur

Henrica van der Linden-van der Zwaag1, Gerard J Onvlee

  • 1Orthopaedic Department, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands. Enrike@vander-linden.nl

Acta Orthopaedica Belgica
|August 8, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Gorham's massive osteolysis is a rare condition affecting bone. This study reviews 22 cases of femoral Gorham's massive osteolysis, highlighting diagnostic criteria and current treatment challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Radiology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Gorham's massive osteolysis (GMO) is a rare idiopathic osteolysis.
  • Femoral localization of GMO is exceptionally rare.
  • Diagnosis relies on specific clinical, biochemical, radiological, and histological findings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the literature on femoral Gorham's massive osteolysis.
  • To summarize diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities for GMO.
  • To present a case of femoral GMO.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Gorham's massive osteolysis cases.
  • Analysis of diagnostic data: anamnesis, biochemistry, radiography, histology.
  • Review of current treatment options including surgery and radiotherapy.

Main Results:

  • Identified 22 cases of femoral Gorham's massive osteolysis in the literature, including one personal case.
  • Confirmed diagnosis requires exclusion of hereditary and nephropathic causes.
  • Histology typically shows intraosseous angiomatosis.

Conclusions:

  • Femoral Gorham's massive osteolysis is a rare entity requiring a multi-faceted diagnostic approach.
  • Current treatments like amputation, arthroplasty, and radiotherapy have limitations.
  • Spontaneous remission is unpredictable; future gene therapy roles require investigation.

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