The natural history of osteoid osteoma.

A long-term follow-up of three patients suffering from osteoid osteoma who have not undergone surgery is reported. Only eight similar cases have been reported in the literature. It is shown that over a period of years the pain of osteoid osteoma eventually disappears but the radiological appearance may remain unaltered or gradually resolve. Surgical management of osteoid osteoma is advised because of the prolonged symptoms.