Chondromyxoid Fibroma
Signs | Symptoms | Treatment
Chondromyxoid fibroma (CMF) is a rare benign bone tumor composed of fibrous, chondroid, and myxoid tissues. In this article, we will explore the causes, affected age groups, affected body sites, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for CMF.
Causes of CMF: The exact etiology of CMF remains unknown.
Age Group Affected: CMF commonly occurs in individuals between the ages of 5 and 30, with a higher incidence in girls and women (female-to-male ratio of 1.7 to 1).
Affected Body Sites:
CMF predominantly affects the metaphysis location in bones, with rare involvement of the diaphysis and epiphysis (more commonly observed in adults). Lower limbs, especially around the knee, are frequently affected, while involvement of the upper limbs is extremely rare.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Chondromyxoid fibromas are characterized by their slow-growing nature.
- Patients often experience mild and long-lasting pain.
- Bony swelling may occur due to underlying bone expansion, which can be tender to the touch.
- Fractures are rare occurrences.
Diagnosis of CMF:
- Initial evaluation involves plain radiographs, which reveal a distinct lytic lesion with well-defined and smooth borders. The affected bone may show signs of expansion, resembling erosion at the edge and resembling a soap bubble appearance.
- In some cases, an MRI scan may be recommended to rule out other potential conditions such as aneurysmal bone cyst, non-ossifying fibroma, or fibrous dysplasia. MRI findings typically exhibit a homogeneous pattern with low intensity.
- A histopathological evaluation through an image-guided core needle biopsy is performed for accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options:
- Surgical intervention is treatment of choice
- Extended Curettage is performed .https://bonecancer.in/2020/05/15/extended-curettage-2/
- Reconstruction can be performed with either bone grafts or bone cement.
- Recurrence rates are very low for an adequately operated CMF.
- Routine follow up is recommended with plain radiographs to ascertain healing and any recurrence.