Osteosarcoma
Bone Cancer Doctor in Kolkata
Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma) is a type of cancer that originates in the cells responsible for forming bones. It is most commonly diagnosed in teenagers and young adults, although it can also occur in younger children and older adults. This cancer can develop in any bone but is usually found in the long bones of the legs, as well as occasionally in the arms. Rarely, bone cancer can arise in soft tissue outside of the bones. Contact the cancer specialist for bone cancer treatment in Kolkata.
Symptoms of Bone Cancer
The most common symptoms of bone cancer include:
- Bone pain or tenderness
- A warm mass or lump (tumour) that can be felt through the skin
- Swelling and redness at the tumour site
- Increased pain when lifting (if it affects the arm)
- Limping (if it affects the leg)
- Limited movement (if it impacts a joint)
- Unexplained fever
- Fractured bones, which can occur even after minor movements
Reach out to the bone oncologist in Kolkata in case you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Causes of Bone Cancer
Several factors may increase your risk of developing bone cancer, including:
Age
The highest incidence occurs in teenagers during rapid growth spurts, particularly between ages 10 and 14. Older adults, especially those over 65, may develop bone cancer as a secondary cancer related to other conditions. Outcomes tend to be worse for individuals aged 40 and older compared to younger adults.
Gender
Bone cancer is more common in individuals assigned male at birth, with teenage males at the highest risk.
Previous Treatments
Treatments such as radiation therapy for other cancers or the use of alkylating agents can increase the risk.
Genetic Health Conditions
Certain inherited conditions, such as Paget’s disease of bone, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Rothmund-Thomson syndrome, Bloom syndrome, Werner syndrome, Diamond-Blackfan anaemia, and hereditary retinoblastoma, are associated with a higher risk.
Bone Trauma or Injury
Factors like infections, bone infarctions (caused by a lack of blood supply), and other bone injuries may also contribute to the development of bone cancer.
Stages of Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is classified into different stages based on the size of the tumour, whether it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, and if it has metastasized to distant sites. The staging helps determine treatment options and prognosis. Here are the main stages:
Stage I
Description:
The tumour is localised and has not spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Subtypes:
Stage IA
The tumour is low grade and smaller than 8 cm.
Stage IB
The tumour is low grade but larger than 8 cm.
Stage II
Description:
The tumour is localised but high grade and can be larger than 8 cm.
Characteristics:
More aggressive than Stage I, with a higher risk of metastasis.
Stage III
Description:
The tumour has spread to nearby tissues or has multiple tumours in the same bone but has not yet metastasized to distant organs.
Stage IV
Description:
The tumour has metastasized to distant sites, such as the lungs or other bones.
Characteristics:
This stage indicates a more advanced disease and requires more intensive treatment.
Diagnosis of Bone Cancer
The diagnosis of bone cancer begins with a physical examination. Depending on the findings, additional tests and procedures may be recommended.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests create detailed images of the body, helping to determine the location and size of the bone cancer. Common imaging tests include:
- X-ray
- MRI
- CT scan
- Bone scan
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
Biopsy
A biopsy involves removing a tissue sample for laboratory analysis. This can be done using a needle inserted through the skin into the tumour or in some cases, through surgical intervention to obtain the sample. The tissue is then examined in a lab to determine if cancer cells are present. Additional specialised tests may provide further insights into the cancer cells. This information helps the doctor develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatments for Bone Cancer
Bone cancer treatment primarily involves chemotherapy with radiation therapy. The oncologist in Kolkata suggests the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of strong medications to treat cancer. For bone cancer, it is often administered to shrink the tumour, making it easier to remove. Chemotherapy may be continued to target any remaining cancer cells. If bone cancer recurs or spreads, chemotherapy can help alleviate pain and slow the disease’s progression.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy utilises powerful energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to treat cancer. During treatment, you lie on a table while a machine precisely directs radiation at targeted areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bone biopsy and why is it done?
A bone biopsy involves removing a small sample of bone tissue for examination under a microscope. It is crucial for confirming a diagnosis of bone cancer and determining its type.
What types of biopsies are performed for bone cancer?
The two main types of biopsies are needle biopsies (using a thin needle) and open biopsies (requiring a larger incision). The choice depends on the tumour’s location and size.
How dangerous is bone cancer compared to other cancers?
Bone cancer can be aggressive and is often more dangerous than some other cancers due to its potential to spread to other organs, particularly if not detected early.
What are the potential complications of untreated bone cancer?
Untreated bone cancer can lead to severe pain, fractures, disability, and metastasis to other parts of the body, complicating treatment and worsening prognosis.
Can bone cancer metastasize, and what does that mean for treatment?
Yes, bone cancer can metastasize, or spread, to other areas such as the lungs. This progression requires more aggressive treatment and can significantly impact the prognosis.