Although bones are hard and rigid they are made up of living cells. There are two types of bones: flat bones, which are those such as the skull that are responsible for protecting organs; and long bones, which provide support such as the bones in the arms or legs. A tumor is a mass of cells and a benign tumor is one that does not spread to other parts of the body. There are several types of benign tumors that grow in and around bones.
Chondroblastoma
Chondroblastoma, also called Codman's tumor, is a rare form of benign tumor that begins in the chondroblast cells. Chondroblast cells produce cartilage, the fibrous connective tissue found around bones that is important in the growth process. Although chondroblastoma can occur at any age, it most commonly affects those between the ages of 10 and 20 according to the University of Virginia Health System.
Chondroblastoma tumors are usually found in the long bones of the limbs such as the femur or humerus. These tumors occur on the bone, but can affect the nearby joints resulting in accumulation of fluid that can cause pain and interfere with movement. Chondroblastoma can also cause the muscle in the area to deteriorate and appear smaller.
Enchondroma
Enchondroma is another type of non-cancerous bone tumor that originates from cartilage. Enchondroma, however, occurs from the cartilage that lines the inside of bones. The long bones of the hand are the most common site for these tumors but they may also be found on the femur, humerus or tibia.
Enchondroma tumors can cause the bone in the hand to become weak and vulnerable to fracture. The tumor can also cause pain and swelling around the area of the tumor. Because these tumors typically affect those between the ages of 10 and 20 they can also slow the growth of the affected bone.
Giant Cell Tumors
Giant cell benign tumors are a rare type of bone tumor that typically affects adults between the ages of 20 and 40, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. The cause of these tumors is unknown and they seem to occur spontaneously independent of environmental factors, diet, trauma or genetics.
Giant cell tumors almost always occur in the end portion of a long bone near a joint. Because of the position of the tumor it can induce symptoms including pain and swelling that can affect the movement of a nearby joint. As the tumor grows to a detectable mass, it can weaken the bone, increasing the risk for fracture.
Osteochondroma
There are two types of osteochondroma bone tumors: solitary osteochondroma and multiple osteochondromatosis. Solitary osteochondroma is the most common of all the benign bone tumors, accounting for 35 to 40 percent of benign bone tumors as reported by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Because osteochondroma is a developmental abnormality it usually occurs in patients ages 10 to 30 years old.
Osteochondroma is an outgrowth or bump on the bone that often occurs near the knee or shoulder. If located where it interferes with a tendon, pain can occur. If located near a nerve, tingling and numbness may be felt.
