Bone Cancer - What All Should You Know?

Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer. The most likely locations for developing osteosarcoma are in the long bones of the arms and legs near the growth regions of knees and shoulders. Ewing's sarcoma is a very aggressive bone cancer. It is more common in younger children between 4-15 years of age. It is found in the middle portion of arms and legs. Fibrosarcoma is a rare soft tissue tumor that most commonly occurs around the knee.

Severe pain is the most common symptom of bone cancer. The pain often starts off as a dull ache that gradually worsens over time. The pain may initially occur only at night or after certain activities. Other lesser known symptoms of bone cancer are fever, anemia, weight loss and chills. Bleeding does not occur when suffering from bone cancer.

There are three main treatment options for bone cancer. They can be used in a combination or singularly. The treatment plan chosen is based on the type, stage and location of cancer, with what speed the tumor is growing and the age and general health of the patient. Surgery is one treatment for bone cancer. It includes options ranging from removal of only the cancerous section of bone or through amputation of a limb.

A majority of bone tumors are not cancerous meaning that they do not inflict any damage to the bone. They are usually just a clump of cells that have lumped together on a bone. Doctors are able to remove them without any issue and both the person and their bones remain healthy after the procedure.