Bone Tumors

Tumor results from the accumulation of abnormal cells and manifests as a solid mass of tissue. As in many other parts of the body, tumor formation can occur in the bones. Bone tumors are formed due to the uncontrolled growth/proliferation of these cells in bone tissue.
It is possible for a tumor structure to form in the bones for reasons such as genetic and environmental factors. It is important to maintain a bone strengthening and nourishing lifestyle, especially at the age when bone health is at its highest.

These include;

  • Eating a healthy diet,
  • Exercising regularly,
  • It is important to beware of physical trauma.

Bone-Tumors

Bone Tumor Symptoms and Causes

As with other types of tumors, the exact cause of bone tumors is unknown. Known causes include genetic predisposition, exposure to chemicals, other environmental factors, and heredity. The most common bone tumor symptoms are:

  • Bone pain,
  • Regional swelling,
  • Bone fracture problem,
  • Anorexia and weight loss,
  • High fever,
  • Restriction of mobility,
  • Weakness, and fatigue.

Types of Bone Tumors

There are two types of bone tumors: benign bone tumors and malignant bone tumors. Cells that develop in the bones and progress uncontrollably are usually benign. However, there are also malignant tumors called bone cancers.

Benign Bone Tumors

These tumors are also called “benign lesions.” Since they do not show any symptoms, they are usually noticed by the specialist during the general checkup. There are types such as NOF (non-ossifying fibroma), fibrous dysplasia, aneurysmal cyst and osteoblastoma.
Although they do not have cancerous features, they can affect the person physically and psychologically. They may manifest as pain, discomfort and swelling. In the later stages, they risk breaking the bones more easily. Benign bone tumors have three stages.
Bone tumors in the first stage are of the accidentally found type mentioned above, that is, they mostly do not cause side effects and problems. Bone tumors of the second stage are manifested by symptoms such as pain, tenderness and swelling. Stage three bone tumors, on the other hand, are located in a structure that is suitable for spreading. In addition to the problems in the second stage, they may cause major problems such as bone fractures as they progress. It is important to see a specialist for diagnosis and treatment of benign tumors that destroy the tumor or the tissue around it.

Malignant-Bone-Tumors

Malignant Bone Tumors

There are two types of malignant bone tumors and cancers that form in bone: primary and secondary. Chondrosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, Fibrosarcoma, and Ewing’s Sarcoma are subcategories. Chondrosarcoma usually occurs in cartilage tissue, while Ewing Sarcoma can develop in both bone and soft tissue. Fibrosarcoma occurs in the legs and chin area. Osteosarcoma is usually genetic and often occurs in prepubertal and pubertal children.

Bone Tumor Diagnosis

“Is my tumor malignant? How is the benign bone tumor treated? What is the treatment for bone cancer…” The first procedure to answer such questions is examination. To understand the condition of the bones, the doctor requests an X-ray film. In this way, information about the tumor is obtained. These areas are also examined, as tumors tend to damage or spread to their surroundings and surrounding organs. For this purpose, examinations are performed with bone scintigraphy (it helps to understand if metastases are present), magnetic resonance imaging and, of course, computed tomography. If a malignant tumor is found, a biopsy may be performed to obtain detailed information about the bone cancer, or the doctor may remove the cancerous mass completely.

Benign Bone Tumor Treatment

These tumors may heal spontaneously. They can occur in children and adults. Bone tumors in children often do not require surgery, but it is extremely important to monitor the growth of the tumors regularly. If these formations negatively affect the person’s daily life, cause bone fractures, cause pain, and cause changes in the bone structure, a surgical method may be used. When the benign tumor is removed, the cavities and depressions in the bone are filled with external bone formations taken from the patient himself/herself or from the tissue bone bank.

Malignant Bone Tumor (Bone Cancer) Treatment

The focus of treatment is to ensure the survival of the person, improve his or her quality of life, and protect the tumorous limb. The tumor can be surgically removed.
Necessary measures are taken to preserve the function of the organ or limb affected by the tumor.
After the tumor is removed, the patient undergoes radiation and chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from recurring and the cancer cells from spreading.