Several diseases can cause bone growth, but osteochondroma is the most common noncancerous bone growth.
Osteochondroma: The Most Common Cause
Osteochondroma is an overgrowth of cartilage and bone, typically occurring near the growth plate at the ends of long bones. The long bones in the leg, the pelvis, and the shoulder blade are the most frequently affected areas. As a benign (noncancerous) tumor, it arises during childhood or adolescence and usually stops growing when the individual reaches skeletal maturity.
Other Conditions Associated with Bone Growth
While osteochondroma is the most common, other conditions can lead to bone growth:
- Osteoarthritis: While primarily known for cartilage degeneration, osteoarthritis can lead to bone spur (osteophyte) formation as the body attempts to repair damaged joints.
- Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma, Chondrosarcoma, etc.): These malignant tumors involve uncontrolled bone growth and destruction.
- Acromegaly: Caused by excessive growth hormone production, acromegaly leads to bone growth, particularly in the hands, feet, and face.
- Paget's Disease of Bone: This chronic disorder disrupts the normal bone remodeling process, resulting in enlarged and weakened bones.
- Fibrous Dysplasia: A rare bone disorder where normal bone is replaced with fibrous tissue, leading to bone expansion and deformities.
Summary
Osteochondroma is the most common non-cancerous condition causing bone growth. However, various other diseases, including osteoarthritis, bone cancer, acromegaly, Paget's disease, and fibrous dysplasia, can also result in abnormal bone growth. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the specific underlying condition.
