brown tumours
Last reviewed 01/2018
Chronic hyperparathyroidism results in demineralisation and fibrosis of bone.
Brown tumours are characteristic of the resulting condition termed osteitis fibrosa cystica.
Brown tumours are not neoplastic. They represent foci of haemorrhage within an enlarged fibrotic marrow space. Organisation of these lesions results in the release of haemosiderin and the accumulation of macrophages, fibroblasts and giant cells.
Radiographically, brown tumours appear as cystic rarefactions, usually within long bones.
Brown tumour are usually associated with primary hyperparaythyroidism.