Abstract
We report the case of a patient with severe muscular and articular tenderness that caused almost complete immobility. This subject had severe hypophosphatemia due to hyperphosphaturia. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) was abnormally high and the diagnostic of tumor-induced osteomalacia was made. Despite multiple tests, the tumor was not localized. In this report, we discuss different possible investigations to localize the tumor. Lastly, we review the potential therapy available when tumor is not found and can thus not be excised.
► Tumor induced osteomalacia is a rare cause of hypophosphatemia with severe clinical consequences. ► Diagnosis is confirmed by plasma FGF-23 measurement. ► Several investigations are proposed to localize the secreting tumor. ► The tumor may stay hidden but a specific medical therapy will improve the patient’s health status.