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Ollier’s disease has to do with enchondromas in the body. An enchondroma is basically a benign tumor of cartilage. These types of tumors commonly develop in the small bones of your hands and toes and the long bones in your feet called the metatarsals. It is often an injury or type of trauma to the toe that causes the formation of the irregularity of the bone. Appearing as a small bony mass, the irregularities can cause disfigurement and limit mobility depending on the size, number and location of the enchondromas.
When multiple enchondromas are present, a person is considered to have Ollier’s disease. It is a fairly rare condition, estimated to affect 1/100,000 people. It typically manifests in the first 10 years of a patient’s life and is not thought to be hereditary.
When there are several tumors, it is very important to be watching them closely as around 30% of people with this condition will develop malignancies of the tumors that are present. There are situations where the tumors can be aggressive and destroy surrounding bone tissue. This would require surgical intervention to remove the tumors.
For most people with Ollier’s disease, the enchondromas do not need any particular treatment. The condition often does not cause any painful symptoms or inhibit regular activity. With the possibility of the situations mentioned above though, regular monitoring and treatment is important as any noticed change will need to have the appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
If you are noticing any abnormal bone development or abnormalities with your foot, make an appointment to see Dr. Tina Boucher. As a foot and ankle specialist, she can provide a thorough evaluation and identify the cause and possible treatment options. Call our podiatric office in Meriden, CT today at (203) 238-3668 or visit www.centralctfootcare.com.
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