Eosinophilic Granuloma is a benign bone tumor that causes a disease that creates too many immune cells. They are not a cause of cancer or an abnormal mass of tissue (neoplasm). This may come from any site within any bone in the body.
Eosinophilic Granuloma is a type of damage that occurs on bones (lesions) due to an overgrowth of immune cells called Langerhans cells. These cells can malfunction and develop into bone tumors on different bones and different areas on those bones. If multiple lesions occur, then there is a risk of organs being involved.
Eosinophilic Granulomas are benign tumors that lead to bone destruction and potential organ involvement.
Radiographic imaging is used to help form a diagnosis. These include X-Ray, MRI, CT and Bone Scans.
An example of an Eosinophilic Granuloma MRI is shown.
The majority of patients are cured by scooping the tumor out of the bone (curettage) and bone grafting or injecting a steroid within the tumor. Low dose radiation may also be used for damage to the bone (lesion) that is unaccessible.
Intralesional Curettage means to scoop the tumor out using a spoon-like tool called a curette. This is a surgery that aims to remove the mass and restore the bone so that the patient can get back to normal function. The eosinophilic granuloma is identified within the bone and scooped, or curetted, out. The cavity is then shaved down with a Midas Rex Drill, which is similar to a dental drill. This drill removes more tumor cells.
The empty bone cavity is usually filled with bone graft or bone cement. Bone can be donated (allograft) or taken from the patient themselves (autograft). Fixation devices, such as a plate and screws, may be used in specific situations to prevent postoperative fracture.
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Patients afflicted with musculoskeletal tumors have complex conditions that are best taken care of at large hospitals. I am the Chairman of Orthopedics and Chief of Orthopedic Oncology at Morristown Medical Center. My philosophy is a multidisciplinary team approach, working together to tailor treatment to individual patients. Education and research are essential to my practice, providing the best setting for extraordinary patient care. Because of this, we have some of the top results in the country.
