Dripping Wax Bone Disease - Melorheostosis - A Rare Case Scenario

Melorheostosis is a rare condition affecting the bones and has only been occasionally reported. We herein report a case of melorheostosis affecting left femur and tibia which was diagnosed based on clinical and radiological features and managed with bisphosphonates.

A 28-year-old female patient presented with complaints of pain over left knee and thigh for the past 3 months. To evaluate the cause of pain X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging were done, which revealed characteristic candle dripping wax appearance suggestive of melorheostosis. After arriving at the diagnosis patient was started on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pamidronate which provided symptomatic betterment patient has now been followed up for past 1 year and is symptom free.

Melorheostosis is an uncommon cause of a common symptom. Positive clinical and imaging features helped us to arrive at the diagnosis. Proper work up would help in early diagnosis and management. More evidence is needed to illustrate the effectiveness of medical or surgical treatments for patients with this rare diagnosis.