Bone cancer is a malignant tumor that arises from the cells that make up the bones of the body.
Bone cancer happens when unusual cells grow out of control in the bone which can destroys normal bone tissue. It may start in your bone or spread there from other parts of your body.
Bone cancer most commonly affects the pelvis or the long bones in the arms and legs.
The cause of most bone cancers is unknown. A small number of bone cancers have been linked to hereditary factors, while others are related to previous radiation exposure.
Some tumors that start in the bones are benign (not cancer). Benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body and are not usually life threatening. When they need to be treated they often can be cured with surgery. Types of benign bone tumors include:
Here are some of the common types of benign bone tumors:
- Osteochondroma is the most common. It often happens in people under age 20.
- Giant cell tumor is usually in your leg. In rare cases, these can also be cancerous.
- Osteoid osteoma often happens in long bones, usually in your early 20s.
- Osteoblastoma is a rare tumor that grows in your spine and long bones, mostly in young adults.
- Enchondroma usually appears in bones of your hands and feet It often has no symptoms. It’s the most common type of hand tumor.
Dr. Babajide Lawson enlighten us on the symptoms, causes and stages of bone cancer.
See video for symptoms, stages and treatment.
