Spontaneous regression of solitary osteochondromas in children: An option to consider in clinical practice.

Osteochondromas are neoplasm that belong to the family of cartilaginous histogenesis tumors and represent 90% of all forms of exostoses. As most osteochondromas are asymptomatic, underdiagnosis is frequent. Symptomatic forms usually manifest before the age of 20 years, and the most common symptoms are pain and the detection of a bony mass. Herein, we report four cases of spontaneous regression of solitary osteochondromas in the light of literature. We consider that orthopedic surgeons should take into account the possibility of spontaneous regression of these tumors, before recommending surgery. Symptoms are usually mild and we recommend following these patients with X-ray and physical examination annually.

[Patellar osteomyelitis. A diagnostic challenge.] / Osteomielitis de rótula. Un reto diagnóstico.

Osteomyelitis is a rare infection that is considered to be a children's disease. Diagnosis is frequently delayed because it is an uncommon pathology and is presented in various ways. After its diagnosis and treatment, the result is favourable in children. We present a clinical case that shows difficulties in its diagnosis. A high index of suspicion should be addressed for early recognition.

La osteomielitis es una infección infrecuente considerada como una enfermedad infantil. El diagnóstico suele demorarse, ya que es una patología rara y con forma de presentación variable. Tras su diagnóstico y tratamiento, la evolución en los niños suele ser favorable. Presentamos un caso que muestra las dificultades en su diagnóstico. Debe dirigirse un alto índice de sospecha para su precoz reconocimiento.

Hematogenous osteomyelitis of the patella.

Osteomyelitis is an uncommon infection that is considered to be a childhood disease. Diagnosis is frequently delayed, as it is a very rare condition and also because of its variable presentation. After an accurate diagnosis and treatment, the outcome is favorable in children. We present one case without recent previous infection, antecedent trauma, or penetrating injury, illustrating the difficulties in diagnosis. Nontraumatic osteomyelitis of the patella should be regarded as a rare hematogenous infection. A high index of suspicion should be addressed for early recognition. Study design is level of evidence: level IV.

Benign calcifying fibrous-myofibroblastic tumor mimicking myositis ossificans in a 22-month-old girl.

Myositis ossificans circumscripta (MOC), with nonneoplastic heterotopic bone formation in soft tissue and skeletal muscle, is rare in children. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma is a very rare malignant mesenchymal neoplasm of soft tissues in children. At onset, it may be difficult to distinguish MOC from a musculoskeletal infection or neoplasm, particularly in the absence of trauma, and a biopsy is frequently required. However, differentiating MOC from malignant neoplasm is imperative. We describe the case of a 22-month-old girl who presented with a benign fibrous-myofibroblastic tumor mimicking MOC. However, extraskeletal osteosarcoma was also considered in the differential diagnosis due to the absence of attachment of the lesion to the skeleton. Pathologic findings after a previous needle biopsy and posterior marginal resection exclude both differential diagnoses. Close follow-up during 3 years postoperatively showed no signs of recurrence.