title: Massive osteolysis of the chest in children: an unusual cause of respiratory distress.
abstract: Massive osteolysis, also called Gorham's disease, is an uncommon disease in which bone virtually disintegrates and is replaced by vascular fibrous connective tissue. The authors treated two children with massive osteolysis of the chest. Both conditions responded well to radiation therapy; one even showed evidence of reossification. Massive osteolysis should be considered in children who have spontaneous hemothorax. The bony structures should be examined for evidence of lytic lesions.
authors.affiliation: Division of Pediatric Surgery, Cook County Hospital, Chicago, IL 60612.
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Meller
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Curet-Scott
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dawson
authors.forename: A S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Besser
authors.forename: D W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Shermeta
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006491:Hemothorax / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D010015:Osteolysis, Essential / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000532:radiotherapy; D011859:Radiography; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology*; D013896:Thoracic Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000532:radiotherapy