Earlier detection increases your chances of successful treatment. In addition to regular medical visits, you may also consider joining a support group to get support and information. Being able to talk to others who have experienced the same diagnosis is extremely beneficial for your mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Read on to learn more. Let’s face it, bone cancer is no fun.
When diagnosed, your doctor will typically use X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or CT scans to assess the condition of the bone. If you are diagnosed with bone cancer, your physician may also perform a biopsy to determine the exact type of cancer cells present. This type of test provides specific information about the cancer cells so your treatment options can be tailored to your specific case. You may also be given medication to help you manage your condition until you receive the final diagnosis.
Unlike most types of cancer, bone tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign bone tumors don’t spread past their original site. However, aggressive tumors can damage nearby bone tissue and spread. Sometimes, bone cancers occur in people with multiple myeloma or hematological conditions. Some types of bone cancer occur in specific bones, such as the spine. The tumors in the bone come from cells called osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for creating bones.
Bone cancer in children is most commonly called osteosarcoma and is one of the most common types of childhood cancer. Osteosarcoma starts in bones and spreads to other areas of the body. It is most common in children and young adults. Males are more likely to develop the disease than females, and the majority of cases occur in the knee. If you’ve been diagnosed with bone cancer, it’s important to seek medical attention as early as possible.
The types of bone cancers include primary and secondary. Primary bone cancers start in bone cells, or osteosarcoma. Secondary bone cancers develop in different parts of the body, including the breast, lungs, and prostate. The cancer cells may then spread to the bones and become invasive. In this case, treatment will focus on treating the primary cancer. However, the treatment of secondary bone cancers depends on the location of the cancer cells, including the type and size of the tumor.
