IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Hereditary multiple exostoses (bilateral knee)

Case contributed by Mohamed El Deen
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Chronic bilateral knee pain. Limitation of joint movements more in extension.

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Female

Plain radiograph showing bilateral multiple benign growths of bone extending outwards from the surface of distal femur, proximal tibia and fibula.

A picture consistent with multiple exostoses of both knee joints.

Bilateral osteoarthritis changes in both knee joints more in the right side.

Two months later.

Right side total knee replacement was done for pain relief and retaining joint function.

Case Discussion

Hereditary multiple exostoses is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by formation of multiple osteochondromas, most common site is distal femur and proximal tibia (70% of cases). The disease caries a risk for malignant transformation.

Depending on their location the exostoses can cause the following problems: pain or numbness from nerve compression, vascular compromise, inequality of limb length, irritation of tendon and muscle.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.