Bone cancer (bone tumor)
About Bone cancer (bone tumor)
An abnormal growth of cells in the bone. These tumors can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (slow growing non-cancerous). Cancers that start somewhere else such as the breast or lung and travel to the bone are called metastases and are not considered bone cancers. The most common benign bone tumors are endochondroma, osteochondroma, nonossifying fibroma, chondroblastoma, osteoid osteoma, osteoblastoma, periosteal chondroma, giant cell tumor, and chondromyxoid fibroma. The most common malignant bone cancers are chondrosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, fibrosarcoma, and osteosarcoma. It is not known what exactly causes these cancers but the risk is increased in certain families and after exposure to radiation. These tumors can occur in any bone in the body but most often affect the arms and legs.Symptoms
Pain and swelling in the affected area. Fractures with minimal injury are common and sometimes called `pathological fractures`. Unexplained weight loss and excessive tiredness occur as well.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. Imaging tests and a biopsy will be performed.Common tests: CT Scan, MRI, PET scan, X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the type of cancer. Benign cancers may not require treatment. Treatment of malignant cancers includes surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.Medical specialties
Orthopedic Surgery · Hematology and Oncology · Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Bone cancer (bone tumor).