Osteosarcoma is a cancer of the bone that usually occurs more often in boys belonging to the pre-pubescent until their young adulthood stages than in girls. Osteosarcoma is the abnormal growth and development of the outer covering of the bone, known as osteoblast cells. In the US alone, there are 900 new cases of Osteosarcoma that are being reported yearly.
It usually affects the long bones of the body particularly in areas that surround the knee like the upper and lower leg bones or any prominent bones of the body such as the thigh, bones of the upper arms, pelvis, shoulder and the skull. Some of the bone tissues of the feet may also be affected with Osteosarcoma. There is a chance for this type of bone cancer to metastasize or spread in other parts of the body and affect vital organs like the lungs, liver and kidneys through the blood stream and lymphatic system.
Symptoms
Pain of the affected bone is the most common symptom of Osteosarcoma. The pain is brought about by the compression of the tumor to the nerve endings. The pain is intensified during activities like lifting. There is also swelling of the area surrounding the tumor growth. The person with this type of tumor may experience limping and decreased movement of the affected limb. Other signs and symptoms include frequent fatigue, swelling of the joints, fever brought about by inflammation, and decreased red blood cell count or anemia.
Physical Exam
There are various ways to diagnose osteosarcoma. Initially, the physician will have to take a complete medical history asking the patient about heredity, risk factors and other pressing issues that are related to the condition. The assessment includes physical examination to look for possible signs of Osteosarcoma and other health problems.
Blood Test
The doctor may order a series of blood tests that include a complete blood count, alkaline phosphates and lactate dehydrogenase. CBC is done to determine the blood counts of the patient. A decrease ion the number of the red blood cells may signify anemia, while an increase in the number of the white blood cells signifies infection or inflammation. Alkaline phosphatase and lactic dehydrogenase are also elevated in Osteosarcoma; these chemical are the major determinants of the severity of the cancer.
Biopsy
Biopsy is the most effective way to diagnose Osteosarcoma. The pathologist is able to determine through biopsy whether the collected specimen from the patient contain cancerous cells. There are 2 approaches for biopsy; Needle aspiration biopsy and Open biopsy. The needle biopsy is done by inserting a needle directly to the affected bone and cells within it are collected thru aspiration. Open biopsy involves cutting out a portion of the tumor.
Imaging Procedures
Imaging procedures such as bone x-ray, computed tomography (CT or CAT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET scan) and radionuclide bone scans are also done to diagnose Osteosarcoma.
Although bone scans and chest x-rays are helpful, most doctors would recommend CT scan and MRI as long as the patient and his significant others are financially able to pay for them as these diagnostic tests yield more definite and precise image and size of the tumor. They are also helpful in finding out whether the tumor has already reached the metastatic stage and affected the neighboring bones and organs.
Prognosis of Osteosarcoma
With early detection, prompt and proper treatment as well as compliance to treatment regimen, the prognosis of osteosarcoma is relatively good. The chance of recovery is also dependent on the size and severity of the cancer, its location, and the patient's overall well-being. Continuous follow-up check up is essential especially after the treatment of Osteosarcoma as side effects of chemotherapy and radiation can occur as well as recurrence of the tumor.
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