What is Maffucci’s Syndrome?

Maffucci’s syndrome is a very rare congenital disease, wherein multiple enchondromas develop on the bones, along with hemangiomas, or soft tissue tumors that involve entangled, abnormal blood vessels. The benign, non-cancerous cartilage growths form in the cartilage at the end of bones, where bone growth occurs. They most frequently develop in the hands and feet, although they can form anywhere in the body, and can result in severe bone deformities, fractures, underdeveloped muscles, shortened limbs, and shorter stature. Enchondromas halt formation when growing stops. The growths can become malignant, or cancerous. Surgical treatment is necessary if the growths damage bone tissue, at which point they should be removed.