Chronic sclerosing osteomyelitis (Garré)

Eight patients with chronic sclerosing osteomyelitis (Garré) were investigated for an average follow-up of 13 years. The disease is a well definable clinical entity affecting children and young adults. Secondary lesions occurred in four cases after an average of 5.5 years. Five patients with a history of an average of eight years duration were free of symptoms. whereas the remaining three patients with a history of six, 13, and 15 years, respectively, had intermittent recurrences. The roentgenologic findings showed pronounced sclerosis interspersed with cystic areas. In all cases except one the sclerosis remained unchanged or progressed, even when the patient was free of symptoms. There are indications that the condition may have its origin in an infection caused by low-virulent, anaerobic bacteria. Present methods of treatment appeared to have little, if any effect, on the progress of the disease.