What Is Bone Sarcoma, Its Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment

You might have heard about a lot of cancers, but have you heard about bone cancer, also known as bone sarcoma? Every year, July is observed as Sarcoma Awareness Month to draw attention to the significance of raising awareness about this uncommon type of cancer. Today, we focus on bone sarcoma, a formidable form that affects the bones and demands attention. 

In this article, Dr Srimanth B S, Consultant, Lead Orthopaedic OncoSurgery, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Karnataka, explained bone sarcoma, its symptoms, causes, and treatment.

Dr Srimanth said, “Sarcomas are relatively rare, accounting for less than 3% of all cancer cases, but they are highly aggressive and life-threatening. They affect people of all age groups, with children making up more than 20-25% of all sarcoma cases, spanning from a young age through teenage years, adolescence, and adulthood. The underlying cause of this type of cancer is not really understood; however, research indicates a genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as exposure to radiation to be associated with bone sarcoma.”

Also Read: Unveiling The Secrets: What Happens To Your Bones As You Age?

Symptoms Of Sarcoma

Dr Srimanth said, “Identifying and diagnosing sarcoma can be challenging, as it can occur in both bones and soft tissues in the skeletal system, such as the muscles.”

Persistent And Recurring Pain

One of the most common symptoms is persistent or recurring pain. It is distinct from the pain people commonly experience. This pain is often sharp and dull and tends to aggravate at night, especially when the person is at rest. 

Swelling

Swelling is also a frequent indicator associated with pain in the affected area (bones or joints). In sarcoma patients, swelling is observed to be rapidly growing in the span of a few weeks or months. 

Dr Srimanth added, “Thus, the combination of pain and swelling in a young person or adult for no reason which is rapidly progressing warrants a check with the nearest doctor with relevant tests to ensure that such rare diseases or sarcomas can be ruled out.”

What Can Happen if One Has Sarcoma of the Bone?

Dr Srimanth highlighted, “In many cases, due to lack of awareness, neglect, or the aggressive nature of cancer, individuals with sarcoma may experience bone fractures from very trivial injuries or bumps.”

Such incidences indicate that the bone strength is compromised due to the presence of a growing tumour which often leads to the breakage of bones. Dr Srimanth added, “Since the tumour or cancer tends to spread everywhere, it poses significant challenges to an orthopaedic oncologist to save the limb and sometimes even the life of such patients with advanced, rapidly growing sarcomas of the bones.”

Also Read: Curing Cancer: Expert Explains Importance Of Early Detection And Treatment

Treatment For Bone Sarcomas

Dr Srimanth said, “These cancers are extremely uncommon, so there is no need to panic. However, if any individual comes across any warning signs which could indicate the presence of cancer, they should approach a doctor. This will help find out the reason behind their concerning symptoms.”

According to the American Cancer Society, Some bone tumours may respond well to medications that alter the osteoblasts and osteoclasts that makeup bones. Although these medications are more frequently used to treat other cancer types that have metastasised to the bones, they may also be effective in treating some original bone malignancies.

Dr Srimanth added, “Sarcomas are good treatment-response diseases and thus, can be completely cured to a large extent given that one visits the doctor and receives treatment when the cancer is still in the early stages. Being vigilant and seeking medical attention promptly can lead to timely diagnosis, successful treatment, and better prospects for recovery.”

Disclaimer

The information in this article is shared by the expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, it is advisable to visit your healthcare expert for a diagnosis based on your medical history and body type.