How is the bone affected by skin cancer?

Skin cancer typically does not directly affect the bone unless it has spread to an advanced stage and invades the underlying tissues, including the bone. However, certain types of skin cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma, can invade deeper tissues and eventually reach the bone if left untreated.

When skin cancer involves the bone, it is referred to as "osseous metastasis" or "bone metastasis." This occurs when cancer cells from the skin spread to the bone tissue through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Bone metastasis can cause various symptoms, such as:

- Persistent pain in the affected area

- Swelling or bone deformities

- Weakness or fatigue

- Bone fragility, increasing the risk of fractures

- Neurological symptoms (if the tumor compresses the spinal cord or nerves)

- Weight loss or loss of appetite

The bones most commonly affected by skin cancer metastasis include the spine, pelvis, ribs, and long bones like the femur (thigh bone) and humerus (upper arm bone). When skin cancer spreads to the bone, it becomes a more serious and advanced stage of the disease, requiring specialized treatment approaches to manage the cancer spread and its effects on the bone.

If you have skin cancer and are experiencing symptoms that suggest possible bone involvement, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider or a specialist for timely assessment and appropriate treatment.