Osteoid Osteoma of the Body of the Vertebrae Causing Painful Scoliosis

Osteoid osteoma (OO) affecting the spine is one of the common causes of painful scoliosis in the growing age group. The involvement is usually in the posterior elements involving the lumbar and cervical spine. We report a case of OO affecting the body of the thoracic vertebral body. A 15-year-old male presented with painful left thoracolumbar scoliosis. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MRI showed a lucent area with central dense focus (nidus) suggesting OO. Surgical excision was done under image intensifier and void filled with a mesh cage having bone graft reinforced posteriorly with pedicle screws. Postoperatively, the patient was relieved of his diffuse pain and CT scan revealed complete excision of the lesion. At the follow-up, the patient has an active, unconstrained life. OO in the spine presents as scoliosis which can be painful or painless. The diagnosis can be missed on a plain radiograph and complete radiographic evaluation includes a CT scan and MRI. Spinal management includes curettage or radiofrequency ablation. Recurrence is a known but rare complication.