Familial florid osseous dysplasia: a case report

Most cases of florid osseous dysplasia are asymptomatic and are found during routine radiographic examination. The radiographic spectrum is similar to that of other benign fibro-osseous lesions, beginning as a radiolucent lesion and becoming more radiopaque as the involved bone becomes more sclerotic. Many benign fibro-osseous lesions demonstrate similar histologic features, and without other radiographic and clinical information, a definitive diagnosis may be impossible. The dense bone of florid osseous dysplasia is very susceptible to infection and osteomyelitis, particularly with advancing years and in response to trauma. The disease may be self-limiting as reported by many authors, but as in this case, can be symptomatic for most of the person's lifetime. This presents a diagnostic and treatment dilemma for the clinician. Although this entity has a distinct predilection for black women, more reported cases should be evaluated before the mode of inheritance can be established and before a tendency for familial cases in individuals of Italian descent can be confirmed.