If the tumor is found to be primary bone cancer, the treatment will be individualized to prevent further spread. The treatment for bone cancer will depend on its location and size.
Primary treatment for bone cancer is individualized for each patient, depending on the type of bone cancer and the stage of the disease. Treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and surrounding healthy tissue. Treatments for bone cancer may involve a variety of different treatments, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists may be necessary. However, the goal of the treatment is to control the cancer or ease any pain associated with the condition.
The different types of bone cancers include osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and hematological sarcoma. Osteosarcoma develops in the newly formed bone tissue of a growing child, and chondrosarcoma arises from the cartilage that protects the ends of a bone. Osteosarcoma is a rare but highly aggressive type of bone cancer that may spread to other areas of the body. It typically occurs in children, though it can also occur in adults.
Often, a doctor will perform X-rays, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose a bone tumor. These imaging tests may also include a biopsy, which involves taking a small piece of bone tissue. The biopsy provides specific information about the cancer and helps determine the appropriate treatment for the patient. Although the biopsy is often not enough to rule out the disease, it is a necessary part of the treatment process to determine the type of bone tumor that is present.
Symptoms of bone cancer include pain near the area where the cancer has spread. This pain may not be immediately noticeable, and it is sometimes difficult to differentiate it from ordinary low back pain or arthritis. However, pain that is persistent, doesn’t disappear, or does not stop, should prompt a physician’s visit. In addition to X-ray tests, a doctor will also conduct a biopsy to rule out cancer. It is essential to understand the symptoms of bone cancer in order to properly diagnose it.
Secondary bone cancer may affect the bone marrow. The marrow produces blood cells. If bone marrow is affected by cancer, it may result in low blood cells. In this case, patients may experience shortness of breath, weakness, and an increased risk of infections. Because secondary bone cancer is often difficult to diagnose and treat, treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prolong life. This treatment method is called palliative care, and it is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy.
Although there are no known causes for bone cancer, certain factors can increase the risk of developing this disease. Genetic disorders and previous treatments for other illnesses are known risk factors for bone cancer. People who have undergone high-dose external radiation therapy or taken certain anticancer drugs are more prone to the development of osteosarcoma. Children undergoing stem cell transplant are also at risk for the development of osteosarcoma. So, if you notice any of the symptoms of bone cancer, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
