Posterior element lumbar osteochondroma presenting with severe radiculopathy: A case report

Abstract

Spinal osteochondroma is a rare benign tumor that may lead to neurological symptoms when it encroaches on neural structures. We report a 39-year-old male presenting with progressive left lower limb radicular pain for over 3 months, refractory to conservative management. Imaging revealed a bony outgrowth arising from the inferior articular process of the L3 vertebra with cortical and medullary continuity, extending into the spinal canal and causing severe stenosis with compression of the cauda equina nerve roots and associated edema. The patient underwent surgical excision, and histopathology confirmed osteochondroma, with significant postoperative symptom relief. This case highlights the importance of recognizing spinal osteochondroma as a rare cause of lumbar radiculopathy and underscores the role of cross-sectional imaging in accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.