Radiation induced osteochondroma in long-term survivors of childhood cancer.

The records of 200 long term survivors of childhood cancer where reviewed. Radiation induced osteochondromata were detected in 12 patients (6%). Radiation had been administered in doses ranging from 1250 R (approximately 1500 rad) to 5500 rad between the ages of 8 months and 11 1/2 years. Radiation-induced osteochrondromata were detected 3 to 13 1/2 years later, with a median of 5 years. The osteochrondomata were single in 7 patients and multiple (2-4) in 5. Two occurred at sites of previous thoracotomy. Factors related to radiation induced osteochondromata are discussed.