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Facts About Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is a rare but serious type of bone cancer that develops in growing bone tissue. According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 2,500 people are diagnosed with bone cancer each year. Osteosarcoma is more common in children and teenagers. However, this type of cancer can occur in adults. If diagnosed early, the survival rate is high. But if left untreated, osteosarcoma can spread to other organs.

  1. Risk Factors

    • The cause of osteosarcoma is unknown. However, this type of cancer tends to run in families. Osteosarcoma and other types of bone cancer have been linked to high doses of radiation. Undergoing a diagnostic X-ray will not increase a person's chances of developing this type of cancer. However, undergoing radiation treatment for another type of cancer can damage healthy cells and cause osteosarcoma.

    Symptoms

    • The most common symptom of osteosarcoma is bone pain. As the tumor grows, you may begin to experience additional symptoms such as weakness, joint swelling, tiredness, fever and anemia. Additionally, you may develop a persistent limp or deal with frequent bone fractures. If a tumor develops in the arms, lifting the arms may become increasingly difficult.

    Diagnosing Osteosarcoma

    • Several tests are necessary to diagnose osteosarcoma. Initially, doctors will likely order a blood test. Next, a series of imaging tests become necessary to detect tumors and their location within the body. These include an X-ray, MRI, CT scan or bone scan. To confirm osteosarcoma, doctors may request a biopsy and remove a piece of bone tissue.

    Treatment Options

    • The treatment for osteosarcoma depends on the location of the tumor and the severity of the illness. Typical treatments include chemotherapy, in which you'll receive medication to destroy cancerous cells and prevent the growth of new malignant cells. Additionally, radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation beams to shrink tumors and destroy cancer cells. In advanced stages of osteosarcoma, doctors may suggest amputation to remove the affected limb.

    Expert Insight

    • Having a strong support system can help children and adults cope with osteosarcoma and maintain a positive outlook. The success rate is high with early diagnosis, and many hospitals and medical centers offer support groups for patients and families. Thus, you're able to speak with other cancer patients and learn different ways to cope with the illness. Cancer support resources are available online.

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