Bone Cancer
Dr. Niranjan, an accomplished surgical oncologist, specializes in providing comprehensive care to patients battling Bone Cancer
Understanding Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the bones. It can develop in any bone in the body but is most commonly found in the long bones of the arms and legs. It can affect both children and adults, but it’s more common in children and young adults.
Types Of Bone Cancer
There are several different types of bone cancer, with the two main categories being primary and secondary bone cancer.
Osteosarcoma
This is the most common type of bone cancer and typically occurs in the long bones, such as the arms and legs. It often affects adolescents and young adults.
Chondrosarcoma
This cancer starts in the cartilage and is more common in adults.
Ewing Sarcoma
It is most frequently found in the pelvis, chest wall, and long bones and primarily affects children and young adults.
Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma
This is a rare type of bone cancer that can develop in various bones, but it's more common in older adults.
Causes and Risk Factors
Some of the known causes and risk factors for bone cancer:
Hereditary Conditions: Some rare genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma, can increase the risk of developing bone cancer.
Osteosarcoma, the most common type of bone cancer in children and young adults, is more likely to occur in adolescents and young adults.
Exposure to high doses of ionizing radiation, such as radiation therapy for other cancers, may increase the risk of developing bone cancer in the irradiated area.
Patients who have received certain types of chemotherapy, especially for other types of cancers, may have a slightly higher risk of developing bone cancer later in life.
Certain genetic mutations, such as changes in the TP53 gene or RB1 gene, are associated with an increased risk of bone cancer.
Paget’s disease of the bone is a noncancerous condition that affects bone growth and repair. In rare cases, it can progress to bone cancer.
Some types of bone cancer, like osteosarcoma, are slightly more common in males than in females.
Osteosarcoma is more common in people of European descent.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of bone cancer may include:
Bone cancer often causes localized pain in the affected bone. The pain may be intermittent at first but can become more persistent and severe as the cancer progresses. It may worsen at night or during physical activity.
Swelling or a lump near the affected bone may occur. This swelling is usually accompanied by tenderness and warmth in the area.
If bone cancer affects a joint, it can lead to a restricted range of motion in that joint, making movement difficult and painful.
Bone cancer can weaken the affected bone, making it more susceptible to fractures or breaks, even with minor trauma or stress.
In some cases, bone cancer may be accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a general feeling of unwellness.
Rarely, bone cancer may cause a fever, particularly if it has spread to other parts of the body.
As with many types of cancer, bone cancer can cause general fatigue and a lack of energy.
Diagnosis of Bone Cancer
- The process often begins with a discussion of the patient’s medical history, including any symptoms, risk factors, or family history of cancer.
- A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the location and extent of pain, swelling, or other abnormalities.
- X-rays: X-ray images are used to identify abnormal changes in the bone, such as tumors or areas of bone destruction.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images of the bones and surrounding tissues.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans offer high-resolution images of bone and soft tissue, helping to assess the extent of the tumor and its relationship to nearby structures.
- Bone Scan: A bone scan involves the injection of a radioactive substance into the bloodstream, which accumulates in areas of bone with increased activity, such as tumors.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: A PET scan can help determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body by detecting areas of increased metabolic activity.
- A biopsy is a critical step in confirming the presence of bone cancer and identifying its type. During a biopsy, a sample of the affected bone tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.
- There are different methods for obtaining a biopsy sample, including needle biopsy, core biopsy, or surgical biopsy, depending on the location and size of the tumor.
- The biopsy sample is sent to a pathology laboratory, where it is analyzed to determine the type and grade of the bone cancer. Specialized tests may also be performed to identify genetic or molecular characteristics of the tumor.
- Once bone cancer is confirmed, additional tests, such as blood tests, may be conducted to assess the overall health of the patient and to check for cancer spread to other parts of the body.
- Staging of the cancer is crucial to determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions. Staging may involve further imaging studies, such as CT scans or chest X-rays.
- The diagnosis and staging of bone cancer often involve a team of healthcare professionals, including orthopedic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. A multidisciplinary approach helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options
The treatment of bone cancer depends on several factors, including the type of bone cancer, its stage, the location of the tumor, the patient’s overall health. Treatment for bone cancer typically involves a combination of therapies, and the main options include:
Surgery
Surgery is often the primary treatment for localized bone cancer. The goal is to remove the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure that all cancer cells are excised.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It is often used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor, reduce the risk of recurrence, or treat cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery to reduce the size of the tumor or to treat areas where complete surgical removal is not possible.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target certain molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth. These therapies may be used in some cases, particularly if the cancer has specific genetic or molecular abnormalities.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy harnesses the body's immune system to target and attack cancer cells. While it is more commonly used in other types of cancer, research into its potential use in bone cancer is ongoing.
Clinical Trials
Participation in clinical trials can provide access to experimental treatments and therapies that are not yet widely available. This option may be considered, especially if standard treatments are not effective.
Empowering You in the Battle Against Bone Cancer
With over 12 years of experience in surgical oncology, including his specialization in Bone Cancer, Dr. Niranjan is a trusted expert in this field. His approach to Bone Cancer treatment includes:
Dr. Niranjan recognizes that each patient’s case is unique. He tailors treatment plans to individual needs, taking into account factors such as the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and personal preferences.
Dr. Niranjan is well-versed in the latest advancements in surgical techniques and therapies. He offers access to state-of-the-art treatments, including limb-sparing surgery and reconstructive procedures, aimed at improving both survival rates and quality of life.
Dr. Niranjan and his dedicated team provide emotional and psychological support throughout your cancer journey. They are committed to improving your overall well-being, not just treating the disease.
Dr. Niranjan believes that informed patients make the best decisions about their healthcare. He is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge you need to understand your condition, treatment options, and expected outcomes. He will work closely with you to ensure that you are actively involved in your care and decision-making process.