The development of a bone-like, benign tumor on a bone. In this case, the tumor occurs in the frontal nasal sinus.

Benign bone tumors are common. Predisposing factors associated with or linked to benign tumors include: a family history of benign tumors; environmental factors, including viruses, exposure to chemicals, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco; and prior illnesses, such as an autoimmune disease, previous immunosuppressive therapy and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Pain and swelling may be persistent or unexplained. There may be localized muscle atrophy, a hard lump on the bone surface, or bone fracture. Osteomas have an extremely slow growth rate. They are almost entirely restricted to the skull, facial bones and paranasal sinuses.

A complete history and physical examination are necessary for early diagnosis and treatment. Tests include: bone scan; x-ray; computed tomography (CT) scan; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); needle biopsy of the bony lesion and regional lymph nodes; and histological studies of bone marrow. X-rays may show suspicious areas of bony enlargement, deformity, radiodensity, or radiolucency.

Treatments may include: surgery which eliminates pain; radiotherapy; antineoplastic chemotherapy; or a combination of surgery and other therapies. Mild to moderate pain may be treated with nonopioid analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Opioids and NSAIDs are used for bone pain, with corticosteroids being used for severe bone pain.

Benign growths rarely result in health risks.

• The rating schedule for musculoskeletal was updated on February 7, 2021. Protection still does apply and should be considered with existing evaluations (38 CFR 3.951(a)).

• May be entitled to special monthly compensation where the veteran has a single service-connected disability rated as 100% with additional service-connected disability or disabilities independently ratable at 60% or more, which are separate and distinct from the 100% service-connected disability and involves different anatomical segments or bodily systems. See  38 CFR 3.350(i)(1) – Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).

• Note to DCs 5013 through 5024: Evaluate the diseases under diagnostic codes 5013 through 5024 as degenerative arthritis, based on limitation of motion of affected parts.