A bone lesion is an abnormality that occurs with bone cell reproduction and growth. Bone lesions are most common on the larger bones of the arms and legs, such as the femur.

The term bone lesion is a very general one and can be used to describe a wide variety of bone ailments, from non-threatening bone cysts to malignant cancerous bone tumors.

Most bone lesions, especially on larger bones like the femur, are discovered using an X-ray. If further analysis is needed, the doctor will perform a biopsy to obtain a sample of the lesion cells. The doctor will apply a local anesthetic to the leg and insert a specialized drill needle to obtain the sample.

Bone lesions can be classified as malignant, benign, or non-neoplastic cysts. Malignant lesions are harmful to the body and are often cancerous. Benign lesions and non-neoplastic cysts are often caused by growth abnormalities and are usually harmless unless they reach larger sizes.

Bone lesions can develop at any age but are most common in the growing bones of children and adolescents.

If a bone lesion of the femur is benign or non-neoplastic, then it usually does not require surgery. However, if the lesion is malignant or cancerous, a wide variety of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and even amputation may be necessary.