Idiopathic multicentric osteolysis.

A 59 year old while female with striking carpal and tarsal osteolysis is reported. The process primarily involves the carpals and tarsals but includes other sites. The pertinent literature is reviewed and a simplified classification of idiopathic multicentric osteolysis is presented. Idiopathic multicentric osteolysis may be sporadic but can demonstrate either dominant or recessive inheritance. There may or may not be associated nephropathy. The underlying mechanism appears similar in all variations of this condition. Gorham's disease, the Winchester syndrome, and other osteolytic conditions which may predominantly affect the tarsal and carpal bones most likely are totally different processes, unrelated to idiopathic multicentric osteolysis.