The neoplastic growth of tissues in the bone is commonly referred to as bone cancer. Anomalies in the spurt of bone tissues can either be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Primary bone cancer is infrequent, although metastasizing of cancers from bones to other parts of the body such as lungs, breasts, and the prostate is customary. The basic type of primary bone cancer is Osteosarcoma which develops into the new tissues of growing bones. Surgery is the most common treatment for primary bone cancer. Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy are other measures.
What are the most common signs and symptoms of bone cancer?
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Acute pain in the strained bone is the common trouble with the patients suffering from bone cancer. In the initial phase, the pain is not constant. It surfaces at night after the leg is exhausted. Subsequently, when cancer spreads, the pain is aggravated and does not cease. Swelling in the affected area occurs a few weeks later. It can possibly cause a lump on the location of the tumor. Bone cancer dilapidates the bone and thus makes the bones fragile and prone to fractures. It is advisable to consult your doctor when numbness, tingling, and severe weakness prevails longer than normal.
Osteoporosis, Osteosarcoma, and Osteopenia are broadly classified under bone cancer.
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Osteosarcoma is malignant to the bones whereas Osteoporosis and Osteopenia are prevalent bone diseases which are normally noncancerous. Osteosarcoma generally occurs in children.Originating in the bones, it can potentially spread to other parts of the body, such as lungs, breasts and prostate glands. This movement is known as metastasis, which becomes difficult to cure. Patients within 10-20 years of age account for 60% of Osteosarcoma. Leading a healthy lifestyle with adequate nutrition may reduce the chance of getting affected by bone cancer.
According to the National Cancer Institute, Chondrosarcoma and tumor called Ewing sarcoma are chronic types of bone cancer.
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Chondrosarcoma originates from chondroblasts cells that form the cartilages. It cushions the end of the joints that keeps them from rubbing together. It is a type of bone cancer that is most common in the upper leg and the pelvis. Ewing Sarcomas generally arises in soft tissues, pelvis, long bones in the arms and the backbone. These cancers are considered to be chronic and develop from the primitive nerve tissues. Maintaining a healthy weight is recommended by the experts to reduce the risk of bone cancer.
Once affected, bone cancer is not curable.
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With the advancement of technology and meticulous research in medicine, bone cancer is no longer untreatable. Surgery, cryosurgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are the most effective treatment options for bone cancer patients. The choice depends upon the stage, size, type and general health of a patient. Follow up treatments are also accessible to check the recurrence of the disease. Along with prescribed treatment, cancer patients must have a healthy diet along with physical activities as suggested by the doctor. Alcohol consumption must be limited as well.