In this comprehensive review, we explore the full spectrum of the most common incidentally found bone lesions in children and adolescents. Non-ossifying fibromas (NOFs) are benign, self-limiting bone lesions that represent a significant proportion of skeletal abnormalities in this population. Beginning with their first description by Sontag and Pyle and the subsequent histological characterization by Jaffe and Lichtenstein, we trace the historical evolution of understanding NOFs, including early theories on etiology, while outlining key epidemiologic, histopathologic, and advanced imaging findings. Furthermore, we discuss diagnostic criteria, management strategies, and emerging molecular insights for NOFs, emphasizing their clinical significance. By integrating historical perspectives, current diagnostic protocols, and emerging discoveries, this paper seeks to assist clinicians in optimizing diagnostic and treatment protocols to prevent unnecessary interventions through a comprehensive understanding of NOFs.

In this comprehensive review, we explore the full spectrum of the most common incidentally found bone lesion in children and adolescents. Non-ossifying fibromas (NOFs) are benign, self-limiting bone lesions that represent a significant proportion of skeletal abnormalities in this population. Beginning with their first description by Sontag and Pyle and the subsequent histological characterization by Jaffe and Lichtenstein, we trace the historical evolution of understanding NOFs, including early theories on etiology, while outlining key epidemiologic, histopathologic, and advanced imaging findings. Furthermore, we discuss diagnostic criteria, management strategies, and emerging molecular insights for NOFs, emphasizing their clinical significance. By integrating historical perspectives, current diagnostic protocols, and emerging discoveries, this paper seeks to assist clinicians in optimizing diagnostic and treatment proto-cols to prevent unnecessary interventions through a comprehensive understanding of NOFs.