An orthopedic surgeon is evaluating an enchondroma versus a low-grade chondrosarcoma of the phalanx. Which feature MOST strongly favors low-grade chondrosarcoma over enchondroma in the short bones of the hand?

• A Asymptomatic lesion
• B Lesion less than 3 cm
• C Pain associated with the lesion ✓
• D Well-circumscribed lesion with calcifications

Explanation

In short tubular bones of hands and feet, enchondromas are common and usually asymptomatic. Pain associated with a cartilaginous lesion in this location strongly suggests low-grade chondrosarcoma rather than benign enchondroma. Enchondromas in hands are typically small, well-defined, and painless. Size and calcifications alone do not reliably distinguish benign from malignant in small bones.

Reference: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics, 14th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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