Malignant and Benign Tumors of the Bone
Tumors can form when cells divide and a mass of abnormal cells bind together. Typically, when this happens in the bone, the cause is unknown, but it can weaken the bone and cause pain or fractures. Most bone tumors are benign, or noncancerous, but some are malignant, meaning they are cancerous.
Types of benign bone tumors include:
- Osteoblastomas
- Osteoid osteoma
Types of malignant bone tumors include:
- Chondrosarcoma
- Chordoma
- Ewing's sarcoma
- Neuroblastoma
- Osteosarcoma
When the tumor starts in the bone, it is called a primary bone tumor. Secondary bone tumors are those that begin in another part of the body and spread, or metastasize, to the bone.
Bone Tumors Symptoms, Diagnosis and Outlook
Bone tumors are usually found after feeling a dull pain in the area of the tumor. Other symptoms include:
- Bone fractures
- Pain
- Weakness in arms or legs
To diagnose these types of tumors, the experts at Penn State Health may use several types of imaging technology, including X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a computed tomography (CT) scan. Other tests include:
- Bloodwork
- Image guided biopsy may to analyze bone tissue
- Urine test
Your outlook will depend on the size and location of the tumor. Early diagnosis of a tumor is especially important if it is malignant. The earlier the cancer is found, you may have more treatment options available and clinical trials can expand your treatment options.
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Multidisciplinary Team Approach
he musculoskeletal oncology team provides diagnosis, treatment and reconstruction for tumors affecting the musculoskeletal system of both children and adults. The multidisciplinary team is composed of fellowship-trained subspecialists from orthopaedics, radiology, pathology, adult and pediatric oncology and radiation therapy.
Innovative Treatment Options
The team at Penn State Health uses many innovative treatment options, including limb-sparing procedures and soft tissue reconstruction. More than 150 surgical procedures for musculoskeletal tumors are performed each year at Penn State Health.
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