Osteoid Osteoma Detected by Ultrasound: A Case report and Literature review

Abstract

Background:
Osteoid osteoma is a benign osteogenic tumor typically presenting with nocturnal pain relieved by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Although computed tomography is the gold standard for diagnosis, early lesions may be difficult to detect.

Case presentation:
An 8-year-old female presented with persistent nocturnal ankle pain responsive to oral NSAIDs. Radiography and CT showed subtle cortical irregularity of the distal tibia without clear identification of a nidus. Ultrasound demonstrated a well-defined hypoechoic lesion adjacent to the cortex, consistent with osteoid osteoma, enabling accurate localization. Surgical curettage was performed, and histology confirmed the diagnosis. The patient had complete postoperative symptom resolution.

Conclusion:
Ultrasound can serve as a useful complementary modality in the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma, particularly in superficial lesions with inconclusive conventional imaging.

Keywords:
Osteoid osteoma; ultrasound; nidus; bone tumor; pediatric; diagnosis; curettage