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Oncology

Bone Cancer

Bone cancer forms when carcinogenic cells spread from an affected organ towards the bones. Read about symptoms and causes.

Bone Cancer

Bone cancer forms when carcinogenic cells spread from an affected organ towards the bones.


Most cancers are prone to spread to the bones and form metastasis. Breast cancer and Prostate cancer are types that develop into bone cancer most frequently. The spine, pelvis, and thighs are the most affected zones. 


Bone cancer can trigger bone pain and weaken them, making them more prone to fractures. Different available treatments help to mitigate pain and other discomforts.


Causes

The cause of most types of bone cancer is unknown. Some have been linked to hereditary factors, while others are related to radiation exposure. Bone cancer is divided into different types, depending on the type of cells where cancer initially develops. The most common types of bone cancer are:


  • Osteosarcoma. It is the most common type of bone cancer. The tumor occurs in the bones, mostly in children and young adults in the leg or arm bones. In isolated cases, osteosarcomas grows outside the bones (extraskeletal) 


  • Chondrosarcoma. It is the second most common bone cancer. In this tumor, cancer cells make cartilage. It usually occurs in the pelvis, legs, or arms in middle-aged or older adults 


  • Ewing's sarcoma. These tumors commonly grow in the pelvis, legs, or arms in children or young adults


Symptoms

  • Pain in the bones

  • Bone fracture

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Intestinal incontinence

  • Legs or arms weakness 

  • Calcium accumulation in the blood. It may cause nausea, vomiting, or constipation


Risk Factors

Although bone cancer causes are not clear, doctors have found some factors that may increase the risk of bone cancer, such as: 


  • Inherited genetic syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and retinoblastoma 

  • Paget's disease of bone 

  • Exposure to radiation therapy


Diagnosis

Imaging tests can help locate bone tumors and their size and determine if they have spread to other parts of the body. Recommended types of imaging tests may include: 



The Oncologist may also recommend carrying out a biopsy.



Treatment

Bone cancer and bone tumors may disappear when they are benign. In this case, treatment is not required. The Oncologist will require image tests, such as X-Rays, to ensure the tumor stage.


Other cases may require surgery, but every treatment will depend on which part of the body cancer has developed. Radiotherapy is an alternative to prevent fractures or mitigate pain.


Book an appointment with your Oncologist at BlueNetHospitals and start your treatment today. Say goodbye to the pain!



Living with bone cancer


Being diagnosed with bone cancer can be overwhelming, but with time and the right support, you will find a way to deal with these feelings of distress and uncertainty. The most important thing is to be aware that there are treatments to combat this cancer and to lead a healthy life. 


Obtaining information about bone cancer will be vital in making the right decisions, and asking the Oncologist the necessary questions. Surrounding yourself with family and friends, and seeking alternative help with a therapist is helpful.


When should I visit the Doctor?


It is essential to consult a specialist in Orthopedics or Oncology to accurately diagnose bone cancer, carry out the corresponding studies, and assess available treatment options.


When consulting the Orthopedist or Oncologist, it is crucial to record all the symptoms for how long they have manifested themselves. If you are taking any medication, you should also mention it to the doctor. Learning more about this condition is the first step to control it.

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