Bone cancer is a malignant disease that starts in mesodermal cells and grows in bones, cartilage, and connective tissue. Each year, approximately 3,000 new cases are diagnosed in the U.S. It usually begins in children, and there are various subtypes of the disease. Some of the most common types of bone cancer are Osteosarcoma, Ewing’s Sarcoma, and Chondrosarcoma.
Osteosarcoma is the most common type of childhood bone cancer. It affects the growing ends of the bone near the knee. It can also occur in the upper arms and jaw. The most common risk factor for developing this cancer is a family history of bone-forming cells. Regardless of the type, early diagnosis is essential. Treatment is critical and individualized. Osteosarcoma can be difficult to treat, and treatment must begin as soon as possible.
Treatment for bone cancer depends on several factors, including the type of tumor, location, stage, and extent of the disease. Surgical removal is the most common treatment, and may include radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Treatment may include a combination of these methods. Surgery is the most common treatment, removing the tumour and any surrounding healthy tissue. It is performed by a surgeon who specializes in bone cancer. Anova Cancer Care offers patients free cancer guides.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a three-step analgesic ladder for cancer pain. However, 45% of patients with bone cancer have inadequate pain control or are undermanaged. Despite this, pharmacotherapy for bone cancer is not particularly effective or has unpleasant side effects. To manage cancer pain, physicians can consider a combination of therapies such as intrathecal analgesics and chemotherapeutic agents.
While bone cancer can start in any bone, it most commonly affects the long bones of the arms and legs. In the United States, around 1,500 people die from this disease each year. Although children are the most common victims of bone cancer, adults can also be affected. There are many types of bone cancer, including osteosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma, spindle cell sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma.
Osteosarcoma is the most common primary form of bone cancer. This type arises in the cells that line the joints. It usually affects the leg, thigh, or pelvic bone. Chemotherapy is not useful in this situation. In addition, Ewing’s sarcoma typically begins in bone, but can also develop in muscle, pelvic bones, or soft tissue. Fortunately, it is rare in adults.
