OSTEOCHONDROMA Meaning and
Definition
-
Osteochondroma is a type of benign bone tumor that primarily affects the long bones, such as the femur or tibia, but can also occur in other bones. It is the most common type of bone tumor, typically observed in children and adolescents, and usually presents as a solitary lesion.
Osteochondromas develop from abnormal growth of the growth plate, the area of growing tissue near the ends of long bones. This abnormal growth results in the formation of a bony projection, also known as an exostosis, which is covered by a cartilage cap. The cartilage cap is a distinguishing feature of osteochondromas and differentiates them from other bone tumors.
The exact cause of osteochondroma is not well understood, but it is believed to be a developmental anomaly rather than a hereditary condition. Osteochondromas are often asymptomatic, but if they become large, they can cause pain, limited range of motion, and nerve compression if they impinge on adjacent structures. In rare cases, osteochondromas can undergo malignant transformation into a secondary form of cancer called chondrosarcoma.
Diagnosis of osteochondroma is typically made through imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans, that can visualize the bony projection and cartilage cap. Treatment options differ depending on the size, location, and symptoms associated with the osteochondroma. Small and asymptomatic lesions may not require any intervention, while larger or symptomatic cases may necessitate surgical removal. Regular monitoring is recommended to ensure that any potential malignant transformation can be detected early.
-
A tumor composed of bony and cartilaginous elements.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OSTEOCHONDROMA
- isteochondroma
- ksteochondroma
- lsteochondroma
- psteochondroma
- 0steochondroma
- 9steochondroma
- oateochondroma
- ozteochondroma
- oxteochondroma
- odteochondroma
- oeteochondroma
- owteochondroma
- osreochondroma
- osfeochondroma
- osgeochondroma
- osyeochondroma
- os6eochondroma
- os5eochondroma
- ostwochondroma
Etymology of OSTEOCHONDROMA
The word "osteochondroma" is derived from two Greek roots: "osteo" and "chondro".
The Greek word "osteo" (ὀστέον) means "bone". It originates from the Proto-Indo-European root "osth₂-" which also means "bone", and can be found in various related words in other languages as well, such as the Latin "os" and the Old English "ban".
The Greek word "chondro" (χόνδρος) means "cartilage". It originates from the Proto-Indo-European root "ghreue-" which means "to grind" or "to chew" and can also be found in related words in other languages, such as the Latin "grūs", meaning "jaw" or "beak", and the English word "grind".
Similar spelling word for OSTEOCHONDROMA
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
