The unusual demographic presentation of an osteoid osteoma

Abstract

Demographics are an important tool for narrowing down the differential diagnosis for many medical presentations, and though usually steadfast, there are exceptions in using demographics as a guideline for diagnosis. Neoplastic bony lesions are particularly reliable in their presentation within a specific age range. However, if these cases are not fully evaluated and demarcated from one another, it may lead to overevaluation and treatment or underevaluation and treatment of benign neoplastic bony lesions. In this report, we present the case of a 30-year-old male with an osteoid osteoma presenting out of the typical age range. We also include the subsequent treatment of the benign tumor with radiofrequency ablation after the initial failure in medical management. The age range of the presentation of osteoid osteomas is commonly reported in the literature as 5–25 years, and the treatment can be medical or surgical. Here, we discuss the treatment options, demographic presentation, and course of osteoid osteomas. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Patient care, Medical knowledge.