Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2022 | Hypophosphatemic Rickets | Case report
Tumor-induced osteomalacia: a case report
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2022
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Background
Tumor-induced osteomalacia is a rare, acquired paraneoplastic syndrome, including hypophosphatemia, high serum alkaline phosphatase, reduced active vitamin D, suboptimal bone mineral density, bone pain, fragility fractures, and muscle weakness.
Case presentation
We report a case of 74–year–old male of mixed ancestry with hypophosphatemia resistant to treatment despite optimal compliance, associated with profound reduction of bone mineral density and multiple nontraumatic fractures, including bilateral rib fractures, lower-thoracic (T11, T12) vertebrae, and two fractures involving the surgical and anatomical neck of the right humerus. We discuss an approach to identifying the underlying cause of hypophosphatemia associated with fragility fractures, and options for management of this rare condition.
Conclusion
Although rare, tumor-induced osteomalacia can be diagnosed if a logical stepwise approach is implemented. Surgery could be curative if the tumor is properly located and is resectable.