clinical features

Last reviewed 01/2018

Males are affected more commonly than females, with a ratio of approximately 2:1.

In 60-70% of cases, the tumour arises close to the knee, either in the lower end of the femur or the upper end of the tibia. Less frequently, the upper end of the humerus (10%), the pelvis (15%) and the jaw (8%) are involved.

Pain and localised tenderness are common initial presentations. The pain tends to be constant, worst at night, and becomes increasingly more severe.

Later, a localised swelling may be noted with inflammation of the overlying tissues.

Pathologic fractures are rare.

There may be clinical evidence of lung metastases.