[Long-term results of treating histiocytosis X of the spine].

A series of 38 children and juveniles with eosinophilic granuloma located in 44 vertebral bodies was treated. The diagnosis was based on typical radiographic appearance, bone marrow examination and histology in cases where the lesion was surgically resected. Management consisted mainly of immobilization and unloading of the spine for 2-3 years. Since 1972 in order to shorten this period posterior arthrodesis of 3 vertebral bodies in thoracic spine and 2 vertebral bodies in lumbar spine by Albee-Gruca method is performed. Radiotherapy was applied in 1 case. In most of the cases full or partial regeneration of the vertebral body was achieved; the height was restored in 76% on average. The extent of regeneration was higher in younger children and in lumbar and cervical spine possibly because of lordosis in these segments.