Bone cancer is a cancerous tumor of the bone that destroys normal bone
tissue. Not all bone tumors are cancerous. Noncancerous bone tumors are
more common than malignant ones. Both types of bone tumors may grow and
compress healthy bone tissue, but noncancerous tumors do not spread, or
destroy bone tissue, and are rarely a threat to life.
Primary vs. Metastatic Bone Cancer
Cancerous tumors that begin in bone tissue are called primary bone cancer.
Cancer that spreads to the bones from other parts of the body, such as
the breast, lung, or prostate is called metastatic cancer, and is named
for the organ or tissue in which it began. Primary bone cancer is far
less common than cancer that spreads to the bones. Common types of primary
bone cancer include:
Osteosarcoma
Chondrosarcoma
Ewing Sarcoma Family of Tumors
Types of Bone Cancer
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a cancer of the bone that usually affects the large bones
of the arm or leg. It occurs most commonly in young people and affects
more males than females.
Sarcoma
Sarcoma is cancer of the bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or
other connective or supportive tissue. The cause of bone cancer is not
exactly known but factors that contribute to developing tumors are high-dose
external radiation therapy, treatment with certain anticancer drugs, and heredity.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
The most common symptom of bone cancer is pain, but not all bone cancers
cause pain. Swelling can also be seen with bone cancer. To help diagnose
bone cancer the doctor will ask your personal and family medical history.
He or she will also perform a physical exam and order lab and diagnostic
testing that may include:
X-rays
Bone scan
CT scan
MRI
PET scan
Biopsy
A biopsy is used to remove a tissue sample from the bone tumor to determine
if cancer is present. This tissue is then sent to a pathologist to determine
if it is cancer or not.
Treatment Options for Bone Cancer
Treatment options depend on the type, size, location, and stage of the
tumor, as well as age and person’s health. Once diagnosis is confirmed
the doctor will go over treatment options with you. Treatment options
include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and cryosurgery. A treatment
plan that is best for you will then be decided upon by you and your physician.
Expert Bone Cancer Care
At Big Horn Basin Regional Cancer Center, our oncology team is dedicated
to providing advanced, individualized care for patients diagnosed with
bone cancer. We combine leading-edge technology with a compassionate,
team-based approach to ensure you receive the best possible treatment
for your unique diagnosis.
Contact us today to learn more about bone cancer treatment options available in Cody, WY.
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