Osteoid Osteoma in Children Younger than 3 Years of Age

Abstract

We present a case series of four children, younger than 3 years old, with osteoid osteoma of the lower limb. Pain and limping were the main symptoms. With careful clinical examination, we could localize the affected area. Radiological evaluation revealed cortical thickening in 3 children. On MRI examination, we found extensive edema, with normal bony cortices. The central nidus was found in 3 children. CT scan was the most accurate examination which revealed the central nidus with surrounding sclerosis. Bone scans had positive uptake in the affected area. Our patients were treated with an intralesional excision biopsy, with simultaneous radiofrequency ablation in those affected in the femur. Pathological specimens confirmed the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. There was uneventful recovery of our patients. This case series contributes to the limited description of osteoid osteoma diagnosed and treated in very young children.