Non-ossifying fibromas are the most common benign bone lesions in children. Made of fibrous tissue, NOF are non-aggressive. They often occur in the femur (thigh bone) or tibia (shin bone), but may also occur in the humerus (upper arm bone).
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What are the signs and symptoms of a non-ossifying fibroma?
- Mild swelling or soreness
- Dull ache, even during periods of inactivity
- Broken bone caused, in part, by the non-ossifying fibroma; cause is usually discovered later
What causes a non-ossifying fibroma?
The cause of non-ossifying fibromas is currently unknown.
How is a non-ossifying fibroma diagnosed?
- Physical exam
- X-rays
- Additional imaging if necessary:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
How is a non-ossifying fibroma treated?
In most cases, treatment is not needed for non-ossifying fibromas.
However, treatment may be necessary if the non-ossifying fibroma contributes to a weak or fractured bone. In these cases, providers treat the injury by stabilizing the bone. Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan to treat your child’s condition.