Aneurysmal bone cyst of the calcaneus: A rare case report and review of the literature

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign lytic bone tumor of the skeletal system but locally destructive lesion of unknown origin. It often occurs in childhood and usually involves the metaphyseal region of long bones; thus, its localisation in the calcaneum remains rare; its atypical presentation in our case makes it remarkable. We describe a case of a young patient who suffered from chronic heel pain, in whom the clinical examination finds swelling and pain on palpation. A complete radiological assessment was carried out, which revealed a solitary and expansive osteolytic lesion within the calcaneus. Treatment included tumor curettage and reconstruction with allograft and cement. The biopsy report was consistent with an ABC. The postoperative follow-up at 18 months was marked by a good radio-clinical evolution and no recurrence. ABCs are benign cystic expansive tumors that are reactive, locally destructive and blood-filled, their occurrence in the calcaneus has been reported in only 1.6 % of total reported cases. Talalgia is the most frequent sign associated with swelling. Liquid-liquid level images on MRI is a pathognomonic sign of these lesions but the gold standard diagnosis remains histology. Their treatment is based on curettage - filling by grafting. Curettage combined graft makes results butter and improves the quality of life.