Journal of Bone Research
Open Access

Navicular Osteochondroma in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Giorgio Treglia^{* *}Correspondence: Giorgio Treglia, Department of Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland, Email:

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Description

Navicular osteochondroma is a rare condition that affects children's feet. It is a type of benign bone tumor that develops near the navicular bone, a small bone located in the middle of the foot.

Causes

The exact cause of navicular osteochondroma is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be a genetic condition that is passed down from parents to their children. The condition is thought to be caused by a mutation in a gene that regulates bone growth, leading to the formation of abnormal bone tissue.

Symptoms

The symptoms of navicular osteochondroma can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Some children may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience pain or discomfort in the affected foot. Other symptoms may include:

• Swelling or a bump on the top of the foot

• Limited range of motion in the foot or ankle

• Difficulty walking or running

• Visible deformity of the foot.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of navicular osteochondroma typically involves a physical exam, medical history, and imaging studies. During a physical exam, the doctor will examine the affected foot and ask about any symptoms or pain the child may be experiencing. Imaging studies, such as x-rays or MRI scans, can help confirm the presence of a bone tumor and determine the extent of the damage.

Treatment

The treatment of navicular osteochondroma depends on the size and location of the tumor and the severity of symptoms. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary, and the child may simply need to monitor the condition and avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort.

If the tumor is large or causing significant pain or deformity, surgery may be necessary. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and restore normal foot function. Surgery may involve removing the entire tumor or just a portion of it, depending on the extent of the damage. After surgery, the child may need to wear a cast or brace to support the foot as it heals.

Complications of navicular osteochondroma

If left untreated, navicular osteochondroma can lead to a number of complications. The tumor can continue to grow and cause further damage to the foot, leading to chronic pain, disability, and a decreased quality of life. In severe cases, the tumor may even become cancerous, although this is extremely rare.

Prevention

Because navicular osteochondroma is believed to be a genetic condition, there is no known way to prevent it from developing. However, parents with a family history of the condition may wish to consult with a genetic counselor before having children.

Children who have been diagnosed with navicular osteochondroma should avoid activities that put undue stress on the affected foot, such as high-impact sports or activities that require a lot of running or jumping. They should also follow their doctor's instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

Navicular osteochondroma is a rare condition that can cause pain, deformity, and disability in children's feet. It is a type of benign bone tumor that is believed to be caused by a genetic mutation. While some children may not experience any symptoms, others may require surgery to remove the tumor and restore normal foot function. Parents should consult with their doctor if they suspect their child may have navicular osteochondroma and follow their doctor's instructions for postoperative care to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk.