Recurrent Aggressive Osteoblastoma of the Cervical Spine Successfully Treated with Radiotherapy

Osteoblastoma is a benign disease usually treated with complete resection with curative intent, and it accounts for 14% of the benign bone tumors. A more uncommon presentation refers to a rapid growing mass known as aggressive osteoblastoma. We report the case of a young male with cervical swelling due to a progressive mass on the right side of neck with 3 months of evolution. Incisional biopsy demonstrated grade 3 osteoblastoma. A radical surgical resection was attempted, but complete resection was not feasible because of cervical invasion of C3 without spinal involvement. Despite the lack of robust data, intensity modulated radiotherapy was performed in the ipsilateral cervical region at a dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions until November 2013. The patient is being followed up regularly without evidence of recurrence since. The so far successful treatment highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for treating patients with aggressive osteoblastoma.