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Osteosarcoma

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Alternative Names:

Osteogenic sarcoma

Symptoms:

• Bone pain
• Tenderness, swelling, or redness at the site of the bone pain
• The first sign may be a bone fracture. The tumor may cause weakness in the affected area of the bone. A fracture at the site of the tumor is called a "pathological fracture," which occurs after what often seems like a routine movement. For example, a young athlete who breaks an arm during a routine throw should be tested to ensure there is no underlying bone problem, such as a tumor or cyst.

Signs and tests:

• X-ray of the affected area
• CT scan of the affected area
• Blood tests
• CT of the chest to see if the cancer has spread to the lungs
• Open biopsy (at time of surgery for diagnosis)
• Bone scan to see if the cancer has spread to other bones

• Review Date: 5/22/2006
• Reviewed By: Adam S. Levy, MD, Director, Fellowship Training Program, Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx,NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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