Bone Cysts
A bone cyst is an uncommon condition. It is normal for bones to have hollow interiors,
but a bone cyst is a cavity involving the dense outer plates or shell of the bone. For
this reason bone cysts are liable to weaken bone, and if the bones concerned are weight
bearing they may break unexpectedly. Non-weight-bearing bones with a cyst may fracture
under a force that a normal bone would easily sustain.
Bone Cysts symptoms
There are no symptoms. Bone cysts are unsuspected until they cause spontaneous breaks
or are found by accident on an x-ray performed for some other reason.
Bone Cysts Causes
Solitary bone cysts sometimes occur during the period of growth. They are situated near
one or other growing end of the bone and are usually unsuspected until the bone suddenly
and unexpectedly breaks under a minor force. These cysts contain a clear fluid and may
grow steadily until the outer layer of bone is reduced to a thin shell and fracture is
inevitable. Bone cysts are hardly ever seen in adults.
Bone cysts may be caused by tumours, especially by a tumour of the osteoclast bone
cells. These tumours are called osteoclastomas and are usually non-malignant (benign).
Bone Cysts Treatment
If a bone cyst is discovered accidentally before a fracture happens, it may be possible
to stimulate new bone formation within it by injecting a steroid drug directly into the
cavity. If this doesn't work, the cyst may be opened and packed with bone chips taken from
the crest of the pelvis. If a fracture has occurred, bone grafting is
used to try and repair the bone
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