Ollier's disease: a case report and review of literature

Abstract

Background: Ollier's disease is a rare nonfamilial skeletal disorder characterized by the occurrence of multiple enchondromas with asymmetrical involvement of the extremities either exclusively or predominantly. The etiology and underlying factors contributing to this are under investigation. The diagnosis is based on clinical and radiographic features with the complementary role of radionuclide bone scanning to assess radiologically depicted lesions and to ascertain the complete extent of skeletal involvement. Case Presentation: The present study describes the case of a 55-year-old-male patient who presented with multiple marked swellings from fingers of the right forehand and forearm having suppurative discharge and gross deformity that developed when he was eight years of age. On examination, gross enlargement of the right thumb and fifth digit was seen with hard nodules along with redness, increased vascularity, and areas of necrosis. X-ray showed multiple expansile lytic lesions involving metaphysis and diaphysis with ring and arc calcifications involving distal radius and ulna and almost all metacarpal and phalanges. Bone scan showed asymmetrical unilateral involvement of tubular limb bones sparing the axial skeleton. Conclusion: Ollier's disease is a benign, rare nonhereditary skeletal disorder with its malignant transformation being a serious form of complication. Diagnosis rests on the clinical and radiological features.