We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is Ollier Disease?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,147
References
Share

Ollier disease is a rare type of skeletal disorder that involves a form of abnormal bone development known as skeletal dysplasia. While it is thought that this condition is present from birth, it is usually not recognized or diagnosed until early childhood, when symptoms begin to become apparent. This condition causes masses of cartilage to grow and form benign tumors known as enchondromas. These abnormal growths usually stabilize by the time puberty occurs, as the cartilage is replaced by bone. Any questions or concerns about Ollier disease should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

The tumors caused by Ollier disease often cause skeletal deformities and may lead to one arm or leg being a different length from the other. The exact cause of this disease is not fully understood, although a genetic component is suspected. The skeletal abnormalities caused by Ollier disease are usually diagnosed by the time the affected child is 10 years of age.

The long bones of the arms and legs as well as the associated joints and cartilage are the most affected by Ollier disease, although other areas of the skeleton may be affected as well. The pelvis is often affected to some degree by this disease. In rare cases, the sternum, ribs, or skull may be involved. Occasionally, the tumors associated with this disease may become malignant, although this is not usually the case.

In most cases, there is no treatment required for Ollier disease. The enchondromas, or tumors made from cartilage, that occur with this disease do not usually cause any pain or discomfort. Significant growth defects or frequent fractures may indicate the need for surgical intervention. Hemangiomas are abnormal collections of blood vessels that may form in those with this disease, although they are usually benign and do not require medical treatment.

If an enchondroma becomes malignant, it is known as a chondrosarcoma. The most commonly used treatment method for this type of bone cancer is a surgical procedure known as a surgical resection. Depending on the individual situation, this may involve the partial or total amputation of the affected limb. If the surgeon is confident that the entire tumor can be safely removed during the surgical procedure, an attempt may be made to spare the limb and avoid amputation. Chemotherapy is not usually effective against this type of cancer, although radiation treatment may be used in an effort to make the surgical procedure more effective.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Link to Sources

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-ollier-disease.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.