Osteosarcoma Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms of bone cancer vary, depending on the location and size of the tumor.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain at the tumor location
• Swelling or a lump at the location of the tumor
• Deep bone pain severe enough to wake you up
• Bone fractures (rarely)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Trouble breathing
• Fever or night sweats

These symptoms may also be caused by other, less serious health conditions. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be performed.

Tests may include the following:

• Blood test—to check the level of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase; An increased amount of this enzyme is released in patients with bone tumors and when healthy children are growing.
• X-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones
• Bone scan —a test that looks for evidence of bone tumors. A radioactive substance injected into the bloodstream is absorbed by bone tissue, and is then tracked by the bone scan.
• CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside of the body
• MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside of the body
• Biopsy —removal of a sample of bone tissue to test for cancer cells. Excisional (removing the tumor) biopsy for bone tumors may mean excision of a considerable portion of the involved bone or limb, and occasionally, partial or complete amputation of the extremity depending on the location and type of tumor.