Polyostotic fibrous dysplasia in an elderly patient involving spine and ribs

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a benign skeletal disorder characterized by the replacement of normal bone with fibro-osseous tissue, which often causes bone expansion and deformities. Polyostotic fibrous dysplasia (PFD), involving multiple bones, is uncommon and rarely affects the spine and ribs, with fewer than 40 reported cases in the literature. We present the case of a 65-year-old male who presented with sudden left-sided back pain and left sided ptosis. Imaging revealed extensive FD affecting the cervicothoracic vertebrae and the adjacent ribs. Surgical resection involving thoracotomy and excision of the pathological ribs and spinal lesions was performed. The procedure ensured the preservation of vital structures and achieved complete tumor removal. Surgical resection remains crucial in managing symptomatic PFD of the spine and ribs with the aim of complete tumor removal. Long-term follow-up is essential to monitor recurrence and evaluate patient outcomes.