Bone Cancer
Bone Cancer Causes
Generally, there is no known cause for most primary bone cancers, but there are few cases where hereditary component is linked to the development of the cancer. There are also cases associating excessive exposure to radiation therapy as a risk factor in developing bone cancer.
Bone Cancer Definition
Bone Cancer is cancer originating in the bone and believed to be one of the rare types of cancer due to few reported incidence. There are different forms of bone cancer namely: osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and Ewing's sarcoma. Chondrosarcoma arise in the cartilage. Osteosarcoma occurs in growing bone tissue and Ewing's sarcoma starts in immature tissue of the bone marrow; occurring mostly in children and young individuals.
Bone Cancer Diagnosis
Imaging tests including X-ray, CT scan, ultrasound, and MRI can help the doctor to assess the condition. Bone scan to provide image of the inside of the bone
Bone Cancer Symptoms and Signs
Pain in the long bones either on the arms or legs. Weakened bones that oftentimes lead to fracture. Joint inflammation for tumors located near joints or actually in the specific joint. Fatigue, fever, anemia, and unexplainable weight loss are common symptoms of the condition.
Bone Cancer Treatment
Surgery is the most common treatment option for bone cancer. Chemotherapy makes use of medication to destroy rapidly spreading cancer cells, prolong life by controlling growth and spreading of cancer cells, relieve symptoms in the hope to improve quality of life. Radiotherapy is the use of high energy beams to shrink the size of cancerous tumors.