When tumors pose as sports injuries

In active patients, benign tumors such as osteoid osteoma, aneurysmal bone cyst, and chondroblastoma can masquerade as common sports-related conditions like muscle strains or tendinitis. Sometimes musculoskeletal symptoms can result from a cyst or tumor in another organ system. Four case studies show that the physician should have a high index of suspicion when patients do not respond as expected to initial conservative treatment. In such instances, appropriate referrals or imaging studies must be considered. Beyond plain radiographs, MRI or CT may be helpful if warranted by clinical and radiographic findings. Specific treatment of benign bone tumors is individualized, but commonly includes curettage and bone grafting.