What Is an Enchondroma?
An enchondroma is a noncancerous tumor that develops from cartilage inside a bone. These tumors most often form in the small bones of the hands and feet, but they can also affect larger bones in the arms or legs.
Many enchondromas do not cause symptoms and are found during imaging done for another reason. In some cases, the tumor can weaken the bone and increase the risk of fractures.
The exact cause of enchondromas is not fully understood. Experts believe they may develop from abnormal cartilage growth inside the bone. Rare conditions such as Ollier disease and Maffucci syndrome can cause multiple enchondromas.
Symptoms
Enchondromas may not cause noticeable problems at first. Symptoms can develop if the tumor grows or weakens the bone.
Common symptoms may include:
- Pain in the affected area
- Swelling or enlargement of a finger or bone
- Bone fractures that happen more easily
- Changes in bone shape or slow bone growth
How Is It Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers begin with a physical exam and a review of your symptoms and medical history. Many enchondromas are first discovered on an X-ray after an injury or unrelated imaging test.
Additional imaging may include:
- MRI scans to look at nearby tissues and bone structure
- CT scans for detailed bone images
- Bone scans in certain situations to evaluate bone activity
These tests help providers confirm the diagnosis and determine whether the bone has been weakened.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the size of the tumor, symptoms, and whether the bone is at risk for fracture.
Small enchondromas that are not causing symptoms may only need regular monitoring with follow-up imaging. Your provider may recommend periodic X-rays to watch for changes.
If the tumor causes pain, weakens the bone, or leads to fractures, surgery may be recommended. Treatment often involves removing the tumor from the bone. In some cases, bone grafting is used to help strengthen and repair the affected area.
Recovery varies based on the location of the tumor and the type of treatment performed. Many people return to normal activities after healing and follow-up care.
