What is a key symptom of osteoid osteoma?

A key symptom of osteoid osteoma is pain that is relieved by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Osteoid osteoma is a benign bone tumor commonly found in adolescents and young adults. The pain associated with this condition typically has a distinct pattern: it is often described as a dull, aching pain that tends to worsen at night or with activity. However, a notable feature of this pain is that it responds very well to NSAIDs, providing significant relief.

The reason why NSAIDs are particularly effective is that the pain is often related to the inflammatory process surrounding the tumor. The relief from NSAIDs can be used diagnostically, as patients with osteoid osteoma will frequently have a dramatic decrease in pain when treated with these medications, differentiating it from other causes of bone pain that may not respond to NSAIDs.

In contrast, while sharp pain during physical activity can occur, it is not a defining characteristic of osteoid osteoma, nor is uncontrollable swelling typical of this condition. Immediate redness after injury suggests a traumatic event rather than a benign tumor process, which also does not align with the symptoms of osteoid osteoma. Thus, the hallmark of this condition is indeed the pain that is notably relieved by NSAIDs.