Structural scoliosis secondary to thoracic osteoid osteoma: a case report of delayed diagnosis

PURPOSE: The aim of this case report is to show that late diagnosis of vertebral osteoid osteoma gives rise to structural scoliosis which sometimes requires long-term management. METHODS: We report a case of an osteoid osteoma in the thoracic spine associated with structural scoliosis. We describe a 14-year-old boy who complained chronic nightly left back pain and scoliosis. Spine’s X-ray was reported thoraco-lumber scoliosis without bone lesion. RESULTS: MRI as well as technetium-99 m total body bone scan and a computed tomography scan revealed a bony lesion in the upper left joint of T11 vertebra consistent with the diagnosis of OO. Anatomopathological study of the resection piece confirmed the diagnosis of OO. Surgical excision of the tumor resolved pains, but scoliosis needed an orthopedic treatment for 1 year. CONCLUSION: Through this case, it has been demonstrated that late diagnosed vertebral OO can be the cause of structural scoliosis. Clinical and radiological results indicate that OO resection is an effective and safe method of treatment. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: IV.