Different forms of cancer derive their names from the parts of the body in which they begin, the Mayo Clinic reports. Although other types of cancer can metastasize to the bone, the disease named bone cancer starts in the bones themselves, primarily in the legs and arms. As with all forms of the disease, early detection and treatment can help the cancer sufferer to fight the malady.
Pain
The National Cancer Institute reports that the primary early symptom of bone cancer occurs as pain in the areas in which the tumor has formed. The organization states that pain does not always occur when bone cancer exists, but a persistent pain in a specific area of the body, especially in the legs and arms, may indicate the presence of the disease. The area may feel tender to the touch, and the slightest contact with the affected body part may cause uncomfortable sensations.
Swelling
Along with the pain in the area of the body in which bone cancer may exist, the person may notice swelling. This may appear minor in the early stages of the disease, but will persist as the cancer advances.
Weight Loss
As the person's body begins fighting the cancer in the bone, it may be sapped of normal nutrients taken into the system through food. Even with food-intake levels maintained, the bone cancer sufferer may begin to lose body weight. Early in the disease, this weight loss may occur very slowly with only a pound or two at a time. If the weight does not come back quickly, it may mean an illness such as bone cancer has developed.
Unintended weight loss also may occur from a variety of other causes and illnesses, as well as through side effects of new medications. If none of these apply, the Mayo Clinic recommends consulting a physician.
Fatigue
The immune system's attempts to fight the cancerous growth on the bone may leave the person suffering from fatigue, even at an early stage. When no external explanation exists for this general feeling of body weakness and tiredness, bone cancer--or other forms of the disease--may have begun.
Bone Weakness
Although it may take some time for cancer to weaken the bones, an early symptom of the disease may occur as a fracture that happens too easily. Bones are hollow to allow for the creation of red blood cells within the marrow contained inside. As the cancer eats away at the bone, it may become weak. This may occur sooner with cancer that occurs in bones smaller than the legs or arms.
