What are the Different Types Of Bone Cancer?

Bone cancer or cancer of the bones was a rare type of cancer, but these days there is an increase in the number of cases reported for this condition. It starts when mutated or defected cells begin to grow abnormally in the bones. Bone cancer is generally malignant in nature, that is, it spreads to other parts of the body.

Types of bone cancer

Bone cancer can be of different types and is generally named on the basis of affected bone or tissue. Some of the common types are:

1. Osteosarcoma: It is amongst the most common types of bone cancer and most cases are reported in children and young adults i.e less than 30 years. It generally develops in bones of leg or arm.
2. Chondrosarcoma: It is the second most common form of bone cancer and starts in cartilage cells. It starts in regions like the pelvis, legs, or arms. Other areas that may get affected are trachea, larynx, or chest wall. The risk of developing this cancer is more in middle age.
3. Ewing sarcoma: Ewing sarcoma is also common in children and young adults. This form of cancer usually affects pelvis, ribs, shoulder and long bones of the legs like femur bone.
4. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: This type of cancer is not exactly a bone cancer but cancer of soft tissues or connective tissues such as ligaments, tendons, fat, and muscle. It is common in middle-aged and elderly people.
5. Fibrosarcoma: This is another type of cancer that originates in soft tissues. The common sites for this type of cancer are legs, arms and jaw.
6. Giant cell tumor of bone: This form of cancer doesn’t spread to other parts. It mostly affects the legs, area near the knees and arms. This kind of cancer can be generally removed by surgery, but there are high chances of recurrence in this cancer.
7. Chordoma: It is the cancer of the skull and bones of the spine and is not a very common form of cancer. It grows slowly and generally doesn’t spreads to other parts of the body.

Bone cancer is a silent cancer as there are no early symptoms. So it is advised to go for annual health check-ups. This will ensure an early diagnosis and beginning the treatment without delay.