Imaging features of juxtacortical chondroma in children
1Department of Radiological Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105-3678, USA, Stephen.miller@stjude.org.
Insights
Juxtacortical chondroma, a rare benign bone tumor in children, presents with mild pain and a palpable mass. Characteristic imaging findings on radiographs, CT, and MRI aid in diagnosis and surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Orthopedic Oncology
- Pediatric Bone Tumors
Background:
- Juxtacortical chondroma is a rare benign bone lesion in children.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to its rarity.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate surgical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the characteristic imaging findings of juxtacortical chondroma in children.
- To aid in the diagnostic process for this rare condition.
- To assist in guiding surgical interventions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pediatric cases diagnosed with juxtacortical chondroma (1998-2012).
- Analysis of diagnostic imaging studies including plain radiographs, CT, MRI, and bone scans.
- Review conducted by an experienced pediatric radiologist.
Main Results:
- Seven pediatric cases identified (ages 6-16 years).
- Characteristic findings include cortical scalloping, sclerosis, and overhanging margins on radiographs/CT.
- MRI shows T1 isointensity, T2 hyperintensity, and peripheral enhancement.
Conclusions:
- Juxtacortical chondroma exhibits distinct imaging features on various modalities.
- Recognition of these features is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Informed diagnosis facilitates appropriate surgical management in pediatric patients.
Background:
Juxtacortical chondroma is a rare benign bone lesion in children. Children usually present with a mildly painful mass, which prompts diagnostic imaging studies. The rarity of this condition often presents a diagnostic challenge. Correct diagnosis is crucial in guiding surgical management.
Objective:
To describe the characteristic imaging findings of juxtacortical chondroma in children.
Materials And Methods:
We identified all children who were diagnosed with juxtacortical chondroma between 1998 and 2012. A single experienced pediatric radiologist reviewed all diagnostic imaging studies, including plain radiographs, CT, MR and bone scans.
Results:
Seven children (5 boys and 2 girls) with juxtacortical chondroma were identified, ranging in age from 6 years to 16 years (mean 12.3 years). Mild pain and a palpable mass were present in all seven children. Plain radiographs were available in 6/7, MR in 7/7, CT in 4/7 and skeletal scintigraphy in 5/7 children. Three lesions were located in the proximal humerus, with one each in the distal radius, distal femur, proximal tibia and scapula. Radiographic and CT features deemed highly suggestive of juxtacortical chondroma included cortical scalloping, underlying cortical sclerosis and overhanging margins. MRI features consistent with juxtacortical chondroma included isointensity to skeletal muscle on T1, marked hyperintensity on T2 and peripheral rim enhancement after contrast agent administration. One of seven lesions demonstrated intramedullary extension, and 2/7 showed adjacent soft-tissue edema.
Conclusion:
Juxtacortical chondroma is an uncommon benign lesion in children with characteristic features on plain radiographs, CT and MR. Recognition of these features is invaluable in guiding appropriate surgical management.
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