Fibroosteoses can be classified according to location, cause, and manifestation:

1. Locally limited fibroosteoses:
   • Occur in a single bone or a limited area, often as a reaction to injuries or overload.
2. Systemic fibroosteoses:
   • Are part of a larger clinical picture, such as in genetic syndromes or metabolic diseases.
3. Primary fibroosteoses:
   • Without identifiable cause, often congenital or genetically determined.
4. Secondary fibroosteoses:
   • Develop as a result of mechanical stress, injuries, or inflammations.

The exact causes of fibroostoses are not fully understood, but include:

- Genetic predisposition:

- Familial clusters suggest a genetic component, especially in syndrome-associated fibroostoses.

- Mechanical overload:

- Chronic stress, misalignments, or microtraumas can stimulate the formation of fibrous and bony tissue.

- Inflammatory processes:

- Prolonged inflammation in the vicinity of the affected bone can promote the growth of fibroostoses.

- Metabolic disorders:

- Diseases such as hyperparathyroidism or osteodystrophies can favor the development of fibroostoses.

- Trauma:

- Direct injuries or bone fractures can trigger local fibroostoses.

The symptoms depend on the location, size, and manifestation of the fibroostosis:

• Local pain:
  • Pain triggered by pressure or movement is often the first symptom.
• Functional limitations:
  • Depending on the affected region, movements may be restricted or joints may be blocked.
• Bone deformities:
  • Visible thickenings or deformations of the affected bone.
• Pressure on surrounding structures:
  • Larger fibroostoses can compress nerves or vessels, causing neurological symptoms or circulatory disorders.
• Fracture susceptibility:
  • In rare cases, the affected bone may be more prone to fractures due to the altered structure. 

The diagnosis is based on a thorough clinical examination and imaging techniques:

• Medical history:
  • The doctor inquires about symptoms, possible triggers, and a family history of bone diseases.
• Physical examination:
  • Palpation of the affected area for pain, swelling, or deformities.
• Imaging techniques:
  • X-ray: Visualization of densifications and changes in bone structure.
  • MRI: Detailed assessment of soft tissues and the exact extent of fibroostosis.
  • CT: Precise depiction of the bony structure, especially in complex or deep-seated changes.
• Biopsy:
  • In unclear cases, a tissue sample is taken to determine the exact composition of the fibroostosis and to rule out malignant processes.

Conservative Therapy

In many cases, fibroostoses can be treated without surgery:

• Pain management:
  • Taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to alleviate discomfort.
• Physiotherapy:
  • Targeted exercises to improve mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles.
• Orthopedic aids:
  • Use of splints or bandages to relieve the affected area.

Surgical Therapy

Surgery is considered if the fibroostosis causes severe discomfort or affects surrounding structures:

• Resection of the fibroostosis:
  • Removal of the altered tissue to restore function.
• Corrective procedures:
  • In cases of bone deformities, surgical correction may be necessary.
• Stabilization:
  • In cases with increased fracture susceptibility, surgical stabilization of the bone may be required.

There are no specific measures for the prevention of fibroostoses, as they are often genetically or traumatically induced. However, general recommendations include:

1. Avoidance of overstrain: Protecting the musculoskeletal system through ergonomic work and proper lifting of heavy loads.
2. Regular exercise: Promoting bone stability through targeted strengthening exercises.
3. Balanced diet: Ensuring adequate supply of calcium and vitamin D for bone health.
4. Early treatment: Immediate clarification and treatment of injuries or inflammatory processes that could trigger fibroostoses.