Hamartoma natural history

If left untreated, hamartomas normally grow slowly and may progress to develop a considerable size, however pulmonary hamartomas have low or no malignant potential. Nevertheless, it is essential to rule out the presence of cancer. Common complications of hamartomas will depend on the location and size.Prognosis is generally regarded as excellent.

• If left untreated, hamartomas normally grow slowly and may progress to develop a considerable size, however hamartomas no malignant potential. Nevertheless, it is essential to rule out the presence of cancer.^[1]

• Common complications of hamartomas will depend on the location and size of the tumor.^[2]
• Large hamartomas are associated with more complications.
• Hamartomas are more likely to cause major complications when located in the hypothalamus, spleen, or kidneys.

• Prognosis is generally regarded as excellent because most osteochondromas cease to grow when skeletal maturity is achieved^[1]
• The prognosis of patients with enchondromatosis is difficult to assess.
• The prognosis also varies with the size and location of tumor, small hamartomas have the most favorable prognosis.

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