# Osteochondroma of tibial tuberosity in a young soccer player mimicking an Osgood-Schlatter disease: A case report and literature review

## TL;DR

A 9-year-old soccer player had knee pain initially thought to be Osgood-Schlatter disease, but it was actually an osteochondroma, which was managed conservatively.

## Contribution

This case highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis to differentiate osteochondroma from common pediatric knee conditions.

## Key findings

- The patient's symptoms were caused by an osteochondroma, not Osgood-Schlatter disease.
- Conservative treatment led to symptom resolution and return to sports.
- Radiological monitoring is sufficient for managing this type of lesion in asymptomatic cases.

## Abstract

We report a case of a 9-year-old male with anterior knee pain and swelling associated with physical activity. The orthopedic surgeon suspected Osgood-Schlatter’s disease. X-ray and MRI showed an osteochondroma of the tibial tuberosity. The patellar tendon partially inserted on the osteochondroma and the tibial tubercle, causing pain associated with physical activity. We chose a conservative management with temporary rest, local application of ice and NSAIDs. After a few weeks, the boy returned to regular training without pain and our final recommendation was only radiological monitoring of the lesion over the time.