In this condition, there is tenderness and enlargement of the
tibial tubercle in a growing child, usually in early adolescence.13 It
is aggravated by activity, especially stair climbing and running.
It represents a stress reaction of the growth cartilage into which
the patellar tendon inserts. The enlargement often creates concern
for a possible tumor. Radiographs will show variable lucency and
density of the tibial tubercle, which are normal findings in the
involved age group.14 Treatment is symptomatic,
with reduction of activities to tolerance. If the child can continue
sports without limping during the activity, he or she should be
allowed to continue. The symptoms usually resolve with skeletal
maturity, with only an occasional person having a symptomatic nodule
at the tubercle as an adult.