What is the prevalence of Ollier disease?

Ollier disease, also known as enchondromatosis, is a rare skeletal disorder characterized by the development of multiple benign cartilage tumors called enchondromas. These tumors primarily affect the long bones of the limbs, such as the femur and tibia, but can also occur in other bones like the hands and feet.

The prevalence of Ollier disease is estimated to be around 1 in 100,000 individuals, making it a relatively uncommon condition. It affects both males and females equally and can be present at birth or develop during childhood. The exact cause of Ollier disease is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to arise from genetic mutations that occur spontaneously rather than being inherited from parents.

Individuals with Ollier disease may experience various symptoms depending on the location and size of the enchondromas. These can include bone deformities, limb length discrepancies, fractures, and joint pain. The condition is typically diagnosed through imaging techniques such as X-rays and MRIs.

While there is no cure for Ollier disease, treatment options focus on managing symptoms and complications. This may involve surgical interventions to remove or stabilize tumors, physical therapy to improve mobility, and regular monitoring to detect any potential malignant transformations of the enchondromas.