Bone Cancer Chondrosarcoma Prognosis

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) chondrosarcoma is the second most common type of form of bone cancer. It typically begins in cartilage cells (fibrous connective tissue) in the pelvis, shoulder, ribs or at the tips of the long bones of the legs and arms. Although chondrosarcoma can strike at any age, the Mayo Clinic reports that it most frequently develops in older adults. Since bone cancer can recur after it has been treated, follow-up care is essential.

Causes and Risk Factors

• According to the NCI, the cause of chondrosarcoma is unknown but there may be certain genetic factors that make some people more inclined to develop this type of bone cancer. The Mayo Clinic says very rare genetic cancer syndromes, including Li-Fraumeni syndrome and Rothmund-Thomson syndrome, may increase the chance of devleoping chondrosarcoma.

Symptoms

• The symptoms associated with chondrosarcoma will depend on where the tumor is situated. The most prevalent signs include a large mass that produces a feeling of pressure on the malignant bone. The pressure may intensify at night. The use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may help to reduce pain. Sometimes pain and/or discomfort is evident for years and slowly worsens over a long stretch of time.

Diagnosis

• A doctor will conduct a physical exam and gather information about your medical history when preparing to make a possible diagnosis of chondrosarcoma. Certain diagnostic tests that may be performed include a biopsy (removing tissue samples with a needle or during surgery) and X-rays to produce images of internal tissues, bones and organs. In some cases, your doctor may order computed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These devise provide more sophisticated images than standard X-rays.

Treatment

• The treatment plan for chondrosarcoma will be based on age, general health, the stage of the cancer and an individual's ability to tolerate certain therapies and medications. As a general rule, treatments include surgery to remove the cancerous mass and chemotherapy, especially if the malignancy has spread to other areas of the body. Physical therapy may be necessary to get back strength in the affected area.

Prognosis

• People who have been treated for chrondorosarcoma should stay in close contact with their doctor and report any abnormal signs or symptoms. Bone cancer sometimes spreads the lungs, or can come back either in the same spot or in different bones. According to the NCI, people who have had chrondrosarcoma and other bone cancers, especially children and adolescents are at an increased risk of developing another type of cancer in the future.