What is Bone Cancer?

Bone cancer is a rare malignancy that begins in the cells of the bone. It can occur in any bone in the body but most commonly affects the long bones in the arms and legs. Bone cancer is categorized into several types, including osteosarcoma (most common in children and young adults), chondrosarcoma (occurring in adults), and Ewing sarcoma (primarily affecting children and adolescents).

 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Bone Cancer?

Symptoms of bone cancer may include:

• Persistent pain in the affected bone

• Swelling and tenderness near the affected area

• Weakened bone, leading to fractures

• Fatigue

• Unintended weight loss

• Fever, in some cases

 

 Can We Prevent Bone Cancer?

Most cases of bone cancer cannot be prevented as the exact causes are often unknown. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding exposure to radiation may reduce the overall risk of cancer.

 

How Do We Diagnose Bone Cancer?

Diagnosing bone cancer typically involves a combination of:

• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and bone scans to visualize the tumor and its extent.

• Biopsy, where a sample of the tumor is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Bone Cancer?

Treatment for bone cancer depends on the type, stage, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health, and may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor and some of the surrounding healthy tissue; in some cases, limb-sparing surgery is possible, while amputation may be necessary in others.

• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells, often used before surgery in the case of certain types of bone cancer.

• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells, typically used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.

• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy, which are newer treatments that target specific aspects of cancer cells or boost the body's immune response to cancer.

The choice of treatment is highly individualized to provide the best chance of a cure or palliation of symptoms.