Solitary Osteochondroma of the Scapula in a Young Male: A Case Report

Osteochondroma is a type of cartilaginous tumor. It is the most common benign tumor of axial skeleton usually arising around the knee, proximal humerus, and pelvis. Solitary osteochondroma of the scapula is relatively rare and usually incidental finding accompanied by pain and dysfunction. These lesions can easily be followed radiographically with plain radiograph. Computed tomography (CT) is used to determine the precise location and its relationship with the surrounding soft tissues and enable accurate surgical removal.

In this report, we present a rare case of a symptomatic scapular osteochondroma in a 18-year-old male who presented with the complaints of swelling over the left scapula. X-ray showed a bony outgrowth along the posteromedial border of the left scapula. CT scan was done to know extent of the growth. MRI was performed to rule out soft-tissue involvement. Despite the young age of the patient, surgical excision was performed. The outcome was good, the patient noticed disappearance of swelling and a normal profile of the scapula was gained.

We have described a rare case of scapular osteochondroma associated with different signs, symptoms, and positive radiological findings. This lesion was removed surgically, and a follow-up indicated complete symptom relief with no history of recurrence. By reporting this case, we aim to increase the awareness of unusual manifestations of osteochondroma, particularly in terms of site, age of onset, and atypical presenting signs and symptoms.