If your child is suffering from the symptoms of spinal osteoid osteomas, you know how this condition can impact their day-to-day life. Luckily, there are treatments available that can help your child find relief and become happy and active individuals.
About Osteoid Osteoma
Osteoid osteomas are typically found in the extremities, such as the hands, fingers, legs, and feet. They are also common in the spine. These small tumors are benign but, when present in the spine, can cause many unwanted symptoms. They can develop anywhere on a vertebra but are usually found on the rear (posterior) sides of these bones. Unlike some tumors, osteoid osteomas can occur anywhere along the spine, from the sacral (lower end) of the spine up to the cervical region (neck).
Relatively small tumors, osteoid osteomas don’t grow any larger than about 3/4 of an inch in diameter. Despite their small size, they can cause symptoms if situated in areas along the spine where they compress the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Symptoms of Osteoid Osteomas
The most common symptom associated with the presence of osteoid osteomas is a relentless, dull ache. Unlike some conditions, the pain does not worsen with activity. Most sufferers note an increase in the level of discomfort at night and will awaken due to its intensity.
When present in the spine, osteoid osteomas can trigger muscle spasms. These spasms can lead to scoliosis, a condition in which the spine is abnormally twisted or bent. When osteoid osteomas develop in the lumbar region (lower back), it’s more likely that spasms will occur, leading to a painful case of scoliosis.
While osteoid osteomas cause symptoms in many children, there are some who are diagnosed with this condition and don’t experience any symptoms or changes.
Diagnosing Osteoid Osteoma
If your child is experiencing symptoms potentially associated with osteoid osteoma, it’s important to have a proper diagnosis made. You can start with your pediatrician, who will perform a physical exam and may provide you with a referral to a reputable neurosurgeon. Once your child’s neurosurgeon has performed an initial exam, imaging will be used to view your child’s spine and help determine where the osteoid osteomas may be growing. The imaging techniques used include x-rays, CT scans and MRIs. If a tumor is found, the doctor may perform a biopsy so that the cells of the tumor tissue can be analyzed and help establish osteoid osteoma as the type of tumor.
Treatment Options for Osteoid Osteoma
In many cases, your child’s osteoid osteomas may be treated with conservative options. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are usually very effective for the pain caused by osteoid osteomas. This is usually the chosen course of action, as it doesn’t carry the risks or recovery times required for surgery.
If, however, your child’s osteoid osteomas are interfering with structures such as nerve roots or the spinal cord, surgery may be considered. This typically is a minimally-invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to remove most, if not all, of the tumor and relieve the compression of the nerve. It’s been shown that the chance of a tumor regrowing in the same spot is low following surgical removal.
Why Choose Neurosurgeons of New Jersey
When you entrust your child’s health to Neurosurgeons of New Jersey, we don’t take it lightly. Our surgeons and staff are highly trained, which allows us to bring not only expertise but also an unparalleled level of caring and compassion. Our top-rated surgeons will listen to you and your concerns, helping you make decisions that are right for your child. Learn why thousands of people in the NY and NJ areas trust Neurosurgeons of NJ with all of their neurological surgery needs.