An osteoma is a rare noncancerous tumor of the bone. Most cases are diagnosed in children and young adults ages 5 to 25.

About half of all osteomas affect the long leg bone (femur), but any bone in the body may be involved, including the skull. An osteoma in the spine can affect the bony ring that protects the spinal nerves.

The most common symptom of an osteoma is pain, often at night, which usually can be relieved by pain medicine. Osteomas are usually not removed surgically unless they are causing problems with movement or compression of a nerve.