What is bone cancer?

It refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal bone cells, usually in the bone tissue of the pelvic area and the upper and lower limbs.

It is a type of cancer that does not occur frequently, having a higher incidence in children and young people. Although its cause is not clear, some factors can contribute to its appearance, such as:

• Paget’s disease.
• Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
• Hereditary retinoblastoma.
• Having received radiotherapy.

There are several types of bone cancer depending on the cell in which it originated:

• Chondrosarcoma: It is born in the cartilage cells, usually appearing in the pelvis, legs, or arms, in adults and older adults.
• Chordoma: It appears at the base of the skull and in the spine, being common in people over 30 years old.
• Osteosarcoma: It develops in bone cells of the arms, legs, or pelvis. It is the most frequent in children and young people.
• Sarcoma or Ewing tumor: It develops in the bones of the pelvis, ribs, shoulder blades, and long bones of the arms and legs.

The characteristic symptoms consist of:

• Bone fragility leading to fractures.
• Aching bones.
• Weakness.
• Tiredness.
• Inflammation.
• Decreased body weight.

To detect it, your doctor, in addition to analyzing your symptoms and medical history, will perform a physical examination and order imaging studies such as X-rays, bone scans, MRI, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography to find out the size and location of the tumor.

If deemed necessary, he or she may request a biopsy of the tumor for laboratory testing, either by surgery or by inserting a needle. Treatment and its duration will depend on the type of bone cancer and how advanced it is, as well as your age and physical condition, but it usually includes:

• Radiotherapy.
• Chemotherapy.
• Surgery.
• Targeted therapy.

Since its opening in 2009, our Cancer Center offers chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments at the level of the best medical centers in the world through a comprehensive care model for cancer patients.

Cancer Center
High Specialty Surgery Center
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory