Benign bone lesions in children: General characteristics and management options

Benign bone lesions within the pediatric population are more common than malignant neoplasms of bone and may present as an incidental finding on radiographs. Typical radiographic characteristics include a well-defined or sclerotic border, sharp zone of transition, and lack of periosteal reaction. Definitive diagnosis is based on radiographic images in most however, in cases of potential malignancy biopsy is warranted. Treatment options vary among the different lesions from observation to more aggressive procedures, such as en bloc resection, which is rarely necessary. The aim of our study was to review the most common characteristics and up-to-date management options of common benign bone lesions such as osteochondromas, enchondromas, nonossifying fibromas, unicameral bone cysts, and aneurysmal bone cysts.