Structural scoliosis secondary to thoracic osteoid osteoma: a case report of delayed diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this case report is to show that late diagnosis of vertebral osteoid osteoma gives rise to structural scoliosis which sometimes requires long-term management. Methods We report a case of an osteoid osteoma in the thoracic spine associated with structural scoliosis. We describe a 14-year-old boy who complained chronic nightly left back pain and scoliosis. Spine’s X-ray was reported thoraco-lumber scoliosis without bone lesion. Results MRI as well as technetium-99 m total body bone scan and a computed tomography scan revealed a bony lesion in the upper left joint of T11 vertebra consistent with the diagnosis of OO. Anatomopathological study of the resection piece confirmed the diagnosis of OO. Surgical excision of the tumor resolved pains, but scoliosis needed an orthopedic treatment for 1 year. Conclusion Through this case, it has been demonstrated that late diagnosed vertebral OO can be the cause of structural scoliosis. Clinical and radiological results indicate that OO resection is an effective and safe method of treatment. Levels of evidence IV.

Is scoliosis a source of pain?

“…However, delayed diagnosis may lead to curve structuralization. 32 Postural or functional scoliosis represents another category, associated with a mild non-structural spine curvature developing because of various spinal (weak postural muscles) or distant (pelvic obliquity due to lower limbs discrepancy) causes. 33 The trunk asymmetry is easily noted in standing position; however, in opposition to idiopathic scoliosis, minimal or no rotation is detected on forward bending using a scoliometer.…”