National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Fibrous dysplasia

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My one year old daughter has been diagnosed with fibrous dysplasia (FD). FD has been found on her left leg in both her tibia and fibula bones. Is there any cure for this condition?

The following information may help to address your question:


How might fibrous dysplasia be treated?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for fibrous dysplasia.[1][2] Treatment depends on the symptoms present.
  • Fractures often require surgery, but can sometimes be treated with casting or splints.[1][3] Surgery is most appropriate in cases where fractures are likely to occur, or where bones have become misshapen. Surgery may also be used to relieve pain.
  • Medications known as bisphosphonates are also used to relieve bone pain.[1][3][4]
  • Other healthy strategies such as physical activity and adequate intake of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D are also encouraged.[1] 

Radiation therapy is not recommended for patients with fibrous dysplasia because it is associated with an increased risk of cancerous transformation.[1][3][4]

Careful, long-term follow-up to monitor fibrous dysplasia is advised.

Last updated: 6/30/2017

Where can I find more information on treatment for fibrous dysplasia?

The following resources contain information on treatment for fibrous dysplasia:
  • Children's Hospital Boston's web site has a fact sheet on fibrous dysplasia that includes information on treatment.
  • Medscape Reference provides detailed information on the treatment of this condition. This resource is aimed at healthcare professionals. You may need to register to view the article, but registration is free.
  • MayoClinic.com has general information on treatment for fibrous dysplasia.
  • ClinicalTrials.gov lists trials that are studying or have studied treatments for Fibrous dysplasia.
Last updated: 9/27/2012

We hope this information is helpful. We strongly recommend you discuss this information with your doctor. If you still have questions, please contact us.

Warm regards,
GARD Information Specialist

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  1. Fibrous Dysplasia Overview. NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center. June 2015; http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/Additional_Bone_Topics/fibrous_dysplasia.asp.
  2. Kaneshiro NK, Zieve D. Fibrous dysplasia. MedlinePlus. December 4, 2013; http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001234.htm.
  3. Fibrous Dysplasia in Children. Boston Children's Hospital. http://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions-and-treatments/conditions/fibrous-dysplasia.
  4. Fibrous Dysplasia. MayoClinic.com. July 8, 2014; http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibrous-dysplasia/basics/symptoms/con-20032196?p=1.