An abnormal growth of cells within a bone is called a bone tumor. Bone tumors can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign bone tumors rarely spread to other parts of the body and are generally not life-threatening, but they can still cause problems by compressing or destroying healthy bone tissue. The bloodstream and lymphatic systems can both carry malignant bone tumors, which are capable of damaging nearby tissues and organs.
The exact causes of bone tumors are not well understood, but some factors that may increase the risk of developing them include:
Genetic mutations or syndromes that affect bone growth or development, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Rothmund-Thomson syndrome, or multiple osteochondromas syndrome.
Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, such as radium, thorium, or vinyl chloride.
Previous injury or infection of a bone.
Having a history of another type of cancer, especially if treated with radiation or chemotherapy.
The symptoms of bone tumors depend on the type, location, and size of the tumor, as well as the age and general health of the person. Some common symptoms include:
Pain in the affected bone or joint, which may worsen at night or with activity.
Swelling, tenderness, or a lump in the area of the tumor.
Fracture of the weakened bone, sometimes with no apparent cause.
Reduced mobility or function of the affected limb or joint.
Fever, weight loss, fatigue, or anemia, in case of malignant bone tumors.
To diagnose a bone tumor, a doctor may perform a physical examination and ask about the medical history and symptoms of the person. The doctor may also order some tests, such as:
X-rays, to show the shape, size, and location of the tumor and any damage to the surrounding bone.
Bone scan, to detect any abnormal areas of bone activity that may indicate a tumor or metastasis (spread of cancer).
MRI or CT scan, to provide more detailed images of the tumor and the nearby tissues and organs.
Biopsy, to remove a small sample of the tumor tissue and examine it under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and grade of the tumor.
The treatment of bone tumors depends on the type, grade, stage, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's age and overall health. Treatment aims to remove or destroy the tumor, control its spread, relieve the symptoms, and preserve the function and appearance of the affected bone or limb. The main types of treatment include:
In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue, or to amputate the affected limb. It is also possible to reconstruct a bone or joint using a prosthesis (artificial device) or graft (transplant) from another part of the body or a donor in surgery.
In radiation therapy, high-energy rays are used to kill or shrink tumor cells, or to prevent them from recurring after surgery. Radiation therapy is also used to relieve pain or other symptoms caused by the tumor.
To use drugs to kill or stop the growth of the tumor cells, or to reduce the risk of recurrence or metastasis after surgery.
There are drugs that target the abnormal genes or proteins that cause or help tumor cells grow and survive. Targeted therapy may have fewer side effects than chemotherapy, but it may not be effective for all types of bone tumors.
To enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, immunotherapy may be used to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack tumor cells.
There is no sure way to prevent bone tumors, but some steps that may help reduce the risk include:
Avoiding exposure to radiation or harmful chemicals, and following safety guidelines when working with them.
Eating a balanced diet that includes enough calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
Maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active to strengthen the bones and muscles.
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, as they can weaken the bones and increase the risk of cancer.
Having regular check-ups and screening tests, especially if there is a family history or genetic predisposition to bone tumors or other cancers.
