EOSINOPHILIC GRANULOMA OF BONE

EXPERIENCE WITH 20 CASES

¹ From the Department of Radiology, Ochsner Clinic, New Orleans, Louisiana

Eosinophilic granuloma of bones is of special interest to radiologists because it is first identified in roentgenograms and may mimic many benign and malignant conditions. Since this entity was first described 26 years ago, it has been reported in many skeletal locations. In our 20 cases, the skull, ribs, and spine were the most frequent sites; an unusual site in the femoral epiphysis is recorded. Local pain and disability are the usual symptoms, but vertebral granulomas may damage the spinal cord, and pathologic fracture of long bones may occur. Correct diagnosis usually requires biopsy. Results of conservative treatment are good; it is important not to overtreat this benign tumor in the fallacious assumption that it is a malignant tumor. The most frequently advocated treatment is curettage, with or without postoperative radiation therapy in moderate dosage.

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