Osteoma
What is it?
Osteoma is a benign bone tumor that can occur in any part of the body where there is bone tissue. It is most commonly found in the skull and the facial bones, particularly in the sinuses.
Osteomas are slow-growing tumors that are typically asymptomatic and are often discovered incidentally on imaging studies. They are composed of mature bone tissue and can have a variety of shapes and sizes.
Signs & symptoms
Most osteomas do not cause any symptoms and are discovered incidentally on imaging studies. In rare cases, osteomas can cause symptoms such as:
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area
- Headache
- Vision problems (if the tumor is located in the eye socket)
- Nasal obstruction or sinusitis (if the tumor is located in the sinuses)
Diagnosis
Osteomas are typically diagnosed through imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI. A biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as osteosarcoma, which is a malignant bone tumor.
Treatment
Most osteomas do not require treatment unless they are causing symptoms or are located in a cosmetically sensitive area. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery to remove the tumor
- Endoscopic surgery to remove the tumor through the nose or mouth
- Observation with regular imaging studies to monitor the tumor for growth or changes
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
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