Extra-osseous osteochondroma-like soft tissue mass of the patello-femoral space

• Main Authors: Maffulli Nicola, Fratoni Stefano, Marconi Alessandro, Oliva Francesco
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2006-07-01
• Series: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Online Access: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2474/7/57

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Extraskeletal cartilaginous tumors are uncommon. Osteochondromas usually arise from the metaphyseal region of the growing skeleton.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>A 53 year old man presented with a three years history of anterior knee pain and inability to flex his knee more than 90°. Clinical examination and imaging studies revealed a nodular calcific mass in the anterior portion of the knee, displacing the medial portion of the patellar tendon. Following excision, histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of extra-osseous osteochondroma-like soft tissue mass, with no recurrence 24 months after surgery.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>An integrated clinical-pathologic diagnosis helps to clarify the nature of extraskeletal cartilaginous tumors that can arise at unusual anatomic site. Complete local surgical excision is the management of choice.</p>