Patient presented with pain in the right wrist.
The patient presented with pain in the right wrist. Plain X-ray, bone scan and CT scan of the hand were performed.
Osteoblastoma is a benign relatively uncommon primary neoplasm of bone that is capable of malignant transformation. It represents 1% of all primary bone tumours. Males are affected more frequently than females with a ratio of 2:1. At least 80% of the individuals affected are less than 30 years of age. Although osteoblastoma can affect any bone, it is common in spine (33-37%) and long bones (26-32%). In the spine, osteoblastomas arise typically from dorsal elements. Small bones of hands and feet are affected in 15-26% of cases and occur rarely in carpel bones (8%). Long insidious history of pain is the commonest symptom. Other symptoms include localised swelling, tenderness and decreased range of motion. Spinal lesions may be accompanied by painful scoliosis and neurological manifestation including paraesthesia and weakness.
Pathologically the lesion is larger than an osteoid osteoma and measures greater than 2cms. It may have a subperiosteal, cortical or medullary location. It contains abundant osteoid tissue and vascular connective tissue stroma with interconnecting trabecular bone.
Radiologically an area of radiolucency is typical that measures 2-10cms. Margins are irregular but sharply demarcated. Expansion of bone, cortical thinning and a soft tissue mass may accompany the lesion. It is slow growing and thus remodelling occurs with periostitis and varying degree of bone sclerosis. Calcification or ossification of osteoid tissue within the tumour can cause punctate or amorphous increase in density. Isotope bone scan shows intense focal accumulation of the agent.
In summary the appearances of osteoblastoma is highly variable and will have to be differentiated from osteoid osteoma, aneurysmal bone cyst, eosinophilic granuloma, enchondroma, fibrous dysplasia, chondromyxoid fibroma or solitary bone cyst. In cases of aggressive osteoblastomas, the osseous expansion and soft tissue extension that are evident radiographically can simulate the abnormalities associated with well differentiated osteosarcoma.
Osteoblastoma of the hamate
This case involves a 17-year-old male patient who presents with right wrist pain. Based on the provided X-ray, bone scan, and CT images, the following findings are noted:
These findings suggest a relatively slow-growing lesion with local activity that can cause significant structural changes in the carpal bones.
Based on the imaging features and the patient’s age and symptoms, the following conditions are considered:
Considering the patient’s age (17 years), chronic wrist pain, and the imaging evidence of a lesion larger than 2 cm with clear boundaries, local bone expansion, and marked uptake on bone scan, the most likely diagnosis is:
Osteoblastoma.
If pathological examination confirms abundant osteogenesis, osteoid matrix, and a vascular stroma within the tumor, the diagnosis is further validated. If any doubt remains, biopsy or surgical pathological examination may be necessary to rule out malignant conditions.
Rehabilitation should follow the FITT-VP (Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, Progression, and Personalization) principles, considering wrist joint function and recovery of adjacent tissues:
Bone healing and wrist function should be closely monitored. If new pain arises or if there is a sudden restriction in movement, seek medical attention promptly to rule out recurrence or other complications.
This report is based on currently available information and is for reference only. It does not replace in-person clinical diagnosis, pathological examination, or professional medical advice. If you have any doubts or experience worsening symptoms, please seek professional medical help at a qualified hospital promptly.
Osteoblastoma of the hamate