1. Primary or Secondary Bone Cancer
Bone cancer originating in the bones' tissues is called primary bone cancer. This type of cancer is quite rare, affecting approximately 2,000 Americans annually. More commonly, cancer originates in another organ and subsequently spreads or metastasizes to the bone. Cancers that are most likely to metastasize to the bone include breast cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, prostate cancer and kidney cancer. People affected by primary bone cancer typically have one of the three most common types, which are Osteosarcoma, Chondrosarcoma and Ewings sarcoma. Osteosarcoma and Ewings sarcoma arise more frequently in teenagers and young adults. Chondrosarcoma is more likely to strike middle aged to older adults.
2. Pain In the Bones
People with bone cancer most commonly report symptoms of pain and discomfort in the bone. Since this cancer most frequently affects the bones of the legs and arms, this is the likely location for pain. As the bones affected by cancer are weakened, they become more susceptible to fractures. Once the cancer metastasizes to other parts of the body, patients report flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, night sweats, weight loss and fatigue.
3. The Impetus for Bone Cancer
Secondary bone cancers result from other primary bone cancers, such as breast cancer or prostate cancer. Doctors and researchers haven't identified the exact cause of most primary bone cancers However, there may be a hereditary link, since bone cancer is more likely in people with certain conditions, including Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Rothmund-Thompson syndrome, hereditary retinoblastoma and multiple exostoses. Sometimes primary bone cancer results from substantial radiation exposure, such as what people receive while undergoing cancer treatment.
4. Examining the Bones
Bone cancer diagnosis commences with a complete physical and a detailed interview to determine medical history. The doctor frequently obtains blood samples and sends them for analysis. Imaging tests, such as MRI, x-ray and CT scan, help to locate the tumor and determine its size. Sometimes, imaging studies offer cues as to whether the tumor is malignant or benign. If your doctor suspects malignancy, he'll perform a biopsy in which a small piece of tissue is extracted from the tumor. Biopsy is done using a needle or as part of a surgical procedure.
5. Eradicating the Cancer
Bone cancer treatment protocol depends on the cancer's size, location and the degree of metastasis. There are three common therapies used to treat bone cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Doctors usually perform surgery to treat bone cancer. Fortunately, procedures to treat bone cancer have progressed significantly over the years, resulting in fewer amputations. Radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy frequently accompany surgical treatment.
