Common Locations
Osteochondromas are commonly found at the growth plates of longer bones, such as the legs and shoulders. However, they can also develop in less common locations, including the hands, feet, and pelvis. Although rare, there have been instances where osteochondroma tumors have been found on the spine in children.
Solitary Osteochondroma vs. Multiple Osteochondroma
When it comes to osteochondromas, there are two main types: solitary and multiple. Solitary osteochondromas are the most common form, characterized by a single tumor that grows at the end of a long bone. On the other hand, multiple osteochondromas are more serious and can lead to abnormal skeletal development.
The symptoms of both solitary and multiple osteochondromas are similar, but the latter tends to be more severe. In children with multiple tumors, the risk of complications is higher compared to those with a solitary growth.