If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with bone cancer, you should know that the outlook for cure depends on several factors. These factors include age, type, stage, and likelihood of further spread. If detected at an early stage, bone cancer is usually easier to cure. The good news is that 6 out of 10 patients will live for at least five years after diagnosis. Depending on the type of bone cancer, patients may even be cured.
To diagnose bone tumors, doctors must perform a physical exam, medical history, and imaging studies. X-rays are useful because they provide images of dense structures, including bones. Different tumors present different appearances on X-rays. Some tumors dissolve bone and make a hole in it, while others cause new bone to form. Others can do both. In this image of a thighbone tumor, you can see the saucer-like erosion of the bone. MRI scans are also helpful to diagnose bone tumors.
Among all types of bone cancer, osteosarcoma is the most common. This disease usually develops in middle-aged or older people. Fortunately, it’s typically treatable by the age of 50. There are other types of bone cancer, such as chonndrosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. The main difference between these two is their risk factors. During the early stages of the disease, it is likely to be low-grade, and may not even be detectable.
Some risk factors increase the risk of bone cancer. High doses of ionizing radiation are associated with a higher risk of developing bone cancer. Other risk factors include genetics, bone marrow transplantation, and other conditions. Additionally, injuries and medical implants can increase the risk. For more information, contact your physician. You can also consult with your health provider if you have any symptoms of bone cancer. Your doctor can order a CT scan to confirm whether it’s osteosarcoma or not.
If your doctor finds a bone tumor, they may recommend a course of treatment that involves several specialists. These doctors are usually members of a multidisciplinary team, and may include a pathologist, medical oncologist, and orthopedic surgeon. They will discuss the different types of treatment available and explain what each one can do for you. Additionally, the doctors will consider other factors such as your overall health and the side effects of each treatment. After the diagnosis, the treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Oftentimes, cancer cells in the bone can weaken the bone and cause pathological fractures. Calcium from the broken bone enters the bloodstream, causing problems such as fatigue, nausea, constipation, and vomiting. Abnormal bone growth can also press on nerves in the back, causing pain. Other symptoms include muscle weakness, numbness, and loss of bowel or bladder control. If you suspect you have bone cancer, visit your GP.
A blood test can detect the presence of bone cancer before symptoms are present. A biopsy of the affected bone will allow doctors to examine the cells and tissue in the affected area. There are two methods for this procedure, including surgical biopsy and core needle biopsy. The first method, known as a core needle biopsy, numbs the area and inserts a thin needle. A CT scan guides the needle, while the latter is done under general anaesthesia.
