Primary tumors of the elbow: a review of the Leeds Regional Bone Tumour Registry.

A review of the Leeds Regional Bone Tumour Registry found that primary tumors of the elbow constituted 25 (1.2%) of the 2154 cases recorded between 1958 and 1992. Fifty percent occurred in the ulna, 20% in the radius, 20% in the humerus, and 10% in the soft tissues. Benign tumors were more common than malignant ones (19 versus 6). Malignant tumors occurred more frequently in older patients (mean age: 45 years) compared with patients with benign tumors (mean age: 17 years). The correct preoperative diagnosis was made on clinical or radiologic findings in only 16 patients, and the histologic diagnosis of the referring pathologist was changed by the Bone Tumour Registry panel in one case. In view of the difficulty of accurately diagnosing primary bone tumors, all such lesions should be referred to a regional bone tumor registry. Such registries can provide valuable information about these uncommon conditions for research, teaching, and education.