Rapid idiopathic osteolysis of the shoulder.

Idiopathic osteolysis (Gorham's disease) is an extremely rare occurrence. The etiology of osteolysis is as yet unknown. A history of minor trauma may be a factor. Bones begin to resorb, partially or completely as a localized erosion, and from this, slow centrifugal absorption of a large piece of the skeleton takes place. The osteolytic process may halt spontaneously after years of progression. Even should it, remineralisation typically is not seen and pathological fractures that occur in patients who have idiopathic osteolysis do not heal."'3 Bones are usually replaced with fibrous tissue rich in proliferating capillaries and dilated vessels with no symptoms or signs of acute inflammation.' In late stages ofthe condition, vascular proliferation appears to regress, which leaves a largely fibrotic stroma in its place.4 The results of osteolysis are deformity and impaired function. Some patients die as a direct result of massive osteolysis.9 The purpose of this paper is to point out the course of severe rapid progression of idiopathic osteolysis.