We present in this paper a case of surface-based haemangioma of the tibia in a 34-year-old patient which had been misdiagnosed as periostitis. X-ray examination demonstrated a periosteal reaction, confirmed by a MRI showing a soft tissue mass adjacent to bone. We performed an incisional biopsy and made a diagnosis of haemangioma only after examining the histological results. An angiographic study was performed in order to have embolisation of the vessels, but this was not possible because of the excessive number and calibre of afferent arteries. No further symptoms arose after biopsy and therefore an en bloc or radical excision was not performed. Indications for making a correct diagnosis and performing a suitable treatment are presented below.