1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Orthopedics

Enchondroma

By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com

Updated: June 20, 2004

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: An enchondroma is a benign tumor of cartilage. This type of tumor causes the formation of islands of mature cartilage in abnormal locations. Usually these tumors occur in the hands or in the long bones of the arms and legs. They are most often asymptomatic, and do not cause pain. If you do experience symptoms, these tumors can be removed; however, this is a risk of recurrence following surgery.

There is a syndrome called Ollier's Disease in which patients have many enchondromas. These must be carefully monitored as there is about a 30% risk of these patients developing a malignant form of the enchondroma called a chondrosarcoma.

Also Known As: Bone Island
Explore Orthopedics
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Orthopedics

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.