Orthopedic Oncology
Orthopedic Oncology
What is a Bone Tumor?
Bone tumors are the result of uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells within the bone tissue. These tumors can weaken the bones, making them fragile and prone to fractures. Bone tumors can occur in any bone and at any location within the bone.
Bone tumors encompass a wide range of diseases, each with its own progression and treatment methods. Generally, tumors that originate from bones and joints, causing localized growth and destruction, are called "benign tumors." Those that have the potential to spread beyond their original site and metastasize to distant areas of the body are referred to as "malignant tumors" or "bone cancer." Additionally, there are "metastatic tumors," which spread to the bones from other organs in the body. There are also some non-tumorous bone diseases that cause tumor-like destruction in bones and joints.
Benign Tumors: These non-cancerous tumors usually do not require treatment and are monitored.
Malignant Tumors: These cancerous tumors may require chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical intervention. Bone cancers are classified as primary and secondary bone cancers. Primary bone cancers originate in the bone, while secondary bone cancers spread to the bone from another part of the body.
What are the Symptoms of a Bone Tumor?
The most common symptom of bone tumors is pain, which often worsens at night and with activity. This pain is typically felt as a dull ache in the area where the tumor is located. Other symptoms of bone cancer include swelling, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. Benign tumors often do not show symptoms and are usually discovered incidentally during medical tests for other reasons.
Types of Malignant Bone Tumors
Osteosarcoma: The most common primary bone cancer, typically seen in adolescents and children. It usually develops around the knee, in the femur or tibia.
Ewing Sarcoma: Commonly occurs in patients aged 5-20 and often metastasizes.
Chondrosarcoma: Found in middle-aged individuals and typically develops in the shoulders and pelvis.
Multiple Myeloma: A cancer originating in the bone marrow, usually seen in older adults.
Types of Benign Bone Tumors
Osteochondroma: The most common benign tumor, typically developing in adolescents and young adults.
Enchondroma: Cysts found in the bone marrow, occurring in the hands, feet, arm, and thigh bones.
Osteoid Osteoma: Usually develops in long bones and can affect people of all ages.
Chondroblastoma: A rare tumor that forms in the joints of long bones.
Nonossifying Fibroma: A simple bone cyst, often found in the leg.
Giant Cell Tumor: Typically found near the knee joint and is most commonly seen in young adults.
Fibrous Dysplasia: The development of abnormal fibrous tissue that can weaken the bone.
Aneurysmal Bone Cyst: A blood vessel abnormality that starts in the bone marrow.
How is a Bone Tumor Diagnosed?
To diagnose a bone tumor, the doctor listens to the patient's complaints and reviews their medical history. A physical examination of the area causing discomfort is performed. Necessary tests include routine blood tests, X-rays, MRI, and CT scans. For a definitive diagnosis, a biopsy is performed, and the sample is examined under a microscope by a pathologist.
What are the Stages of Bone Tumors?
Stage I: Low-risk cancerous lesions; lymph nodes are clear, and there is no metastasis.
Stage II: High-risk cancerous lesions are present.
Stage III: The cancer has spread to other tissues.
What are the Causes of Bone Tumors?
The exact causes of bone tumors are not well understood. Genetic predisposition, exposure to radiation, and bone injuries are possible causes. Genetic disorders like Li-Fraumeni syndrome and exposure to high doses of radiation can lead to bone cancer. Osteosarcoma has been associated with radiation therapy or metal implants.
How Are Bone Tumors Treated?
Benign Tumors: They are usually monitored, and medication is provided if there is pain. Surgery is generally not required.
Malignant Tumors: Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical treatment methods are used. Treatment is determined based on the type and stage of the tumor. Limb-sparing surgery or partial or complete removal of the limb may be necessary.
Recovery After Bone Tumor Treatment
The recovery period depends on the type of tumor and the treatment. Regular check-ups are conducted after treatment, and imaging methods are used to monitor whether the tumor has recurred. Early diagnosis is crucial against possible recurrences, and regular follow-ups should not be neglected.
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