Our bones are like the scaffolding of a building, keeping our bodies standing strong. But sometimes, a hidden danger called bone cancer can weaken this framework. This silent invader may not be as widely recognised as other forms of cancer, but its impact can be just as devastating. In this blog, we’ll take a journey through bone cancer, making it easy to understand. We’ll talk about bone cancer symptoms, causes, and the treatment options available.
Think of your bones as the strong pillars holding up a house. Now, imagine one of those pillars getting a crack, threatening the whole structure. That’s what happens when bone cancer shows up. It’s like a sneak attack where harmful cells start growing inside your bones, making them weaker.
So, why does bone cancer happen? Well, it’s not always easy to say. Sometimes, it shows up for no apparent reason. But for a few people, there could be a family history that makes it more likely. Exposure to radiation in the past or certain inherited conditions can play a part, too. But for most folks, it’s a mystery.
In this blog, we want to make sure everyone understands bone cancer. By talking about the signs, reasons why it happens, and how doctors treat it, we hope to give you the knowledge you need to catch it early and get the right help. Understanding bone cancer is the first step to a healthier future.
Table of Contents
Bone Cancer Symptoms
Bone cancer also referred to as primary bone cancer, is one of the rare kinds of cancer that develops in the cells of the bones. The bone cancer symptoms can differ depending on the type & stage of the cancer, but some common signs and symptoms may include:
1. Pain: Persistent bone pain is often the most common and noticeable symptom of bone cancer. The bone pain may begin as a dull ache & gradually become more intense. It is typically worse at night and can be exacerbated by physical activity.
2. Swelling or lumps: Swelling or the development of a lump near the affected bone may occur. This can lead to a visible bump or a palpable mass, which is often tender to the touch.
3. Fractures: Bone cancer can weaken the affected bone, making it more prone to fractures or breaks. A seemingly minor injury or trauma can result in a fracture.
4. Limited range of motion: Depending on the location of the tumour, bone cancer can restrict the movement of nearby joints, leading to decreased mobility.
5. Fatigue: As with many types of cancer, bone cancer can cause general fatigue and weakness.
6. Weight loss: Unintended weight loss is a common symptom of various cancers, including bone cancer. A loss of appetite may accompany this weight loss.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other non-cancerous conditions or bone-related issues, so the presence of these symptoms does not necessarily mean a person has bone cancer. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing persistent, unexplained bone pain or any of these symptoms, it is vital to have medical consultation. Early diagnosis and treatment of bone cancer can lead to better outcomes & a higher chance of successful management or cure.
Bone Cancer Treatment & Their Cost In India
Bone cancer treatment depends on several factors, such as the type, stage, location, and size of the tumour, the age and general health of the patient, and the personal preferences of the patient and the doctor. The main kinds of treatment for bone cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. These medical treatments can be used alone or in combination, depending on the situation.
– Surgery is the most standard treatment for bone cancer. It involves removing the tumour and some nearby healthy tissue to ensure that no cancer tumours are left behind. Sometimes, surgery can also remove nearby lymph nodes or other organs that may be affected by cancer. The goal of surgery is to preserve as much function and appearance of the affected bone as possible. In some cases, this may require reconstructive surgery or implantation of a prosthesis (artificial limb or joint). In rare cases, when the tumour is too large or too close to vital structures, amputation (removal of a limb) may be necessary.
– Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy bone cancer tumours or stop them from growing. It can be given before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumour & make it easier to remove or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to destroy any remaining cancer cells & prevent a recurrence. Chemotherapy can also be used for patients who cannot have surgery or whose cancer has metastasised to other parts of the body (metastatic bone cancer). Chemotherapy drugs can be given to a cancer patient orally by mouth, intravenously through a vein, or intra-arterially through an artery that leads to the tumour. Chemotherapy can cause some side effects like nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, infection, and low blood cell counts.
– Radiation therapy makes use of high-energy beams or particles to harm or destroy cancer tumours. It can be given before surgery (neoadjuvant radiation therapy) to shrink the tumour and make it easier to remove or after surgery (adjuvant radiation therapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells & prevent a recurrence. Radiation therapy can also be used for patients who cannot have surgery or whose cancer has metastasised to other body parts (metastatic bone cancer). It can be given to a patient externally (from a machine outside the body) or internally (from a radioactive source placed inside or near the tumour). Radiation therapy can cause certain side effects like skin irritation, swelling, pain, fatigue, infection, and damage to nearby tissues.
– Targeted therapy is a newer kind of treatment that utilises drugs or other substances to target specific molecules involved in the development & spread of cancer cells. It can be given alone or in combination with other treatments for some types of bone cancer, such as Ewing’s sarcoma and chondrosarcoma. Targeted therapy drugs can be given orally (by mouth), intravenously (through a vein), or subcutaneously (under the skin). It can cause some types of side effects like rash, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, infection, & high blood pressure.
The price of bone cancer treatment in India varies depending on the type and stage of cancer, the type and extent of treatment, the hospital and doctor’s fees, and other factors. The average cost range for bone cancer treatment in India is as follows:
– Surgery: INR 3.7 lakh to INR 37 lakh ($5,000 to $50,000)
– Chemotherapy: INR 37 thousand to INR 2.2 lakh ($500 to $3,000) per cycle
– Radiation therapy: INR 74 thousand to INR 2.2 lakh ($1,000 to $3,000) per month
– Targeted therapy: INR 1.5 lakh to INR 7.4 lakh ($2,000 to $10,000) per month
Bone Cancer Causes
Bone cancer, or primary bone cancer, is a rare kind of cancer that starts in the cells of the bone. The exact causes of bone cancer are not well understood, but several factors may contribute to its development. These factors include:
1. Genetic mutations: Changes or mutations in the DNA of bone cells can lead to the development of bone cancer. While most cases of bone cancer are not inherited, there are rare genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma, that can increase the risk of bone cancer.
2. Radiation exposure: Exposure to high doses of ionising radiation, such as during radiation therapy for other cancer types, can increase the risk of developing bone cancer. Radiation-induced bone cancer is relatively rare and often occurs many years after exposure.
3. Paget’s disease of bone: Paget’s disease is a condition where the bone tissue is broken down and replaced with abnormal bone. People with Paget’s disease have a high risk of developing bone cancer.
4. Previous bone conditions: Some benign bone tumours, such as osteochondromas or enchondromas, may increase the risk of developing malignant bone cancer later in life. These benign tumours can transform into cancerous ones in rare cases.
5. Genetic predisposition: While most cases of bone cancer are not directly inherited, having a family history of cancer in general may increase the risk of developing bone cancer. This may be related to shared genetic factors or environmental exposures within the family.
It’s important to note that most cases of bone pain are not due to bone cancer but are related to other, more common conditions like fractures, arthritis, or infections. If someone is concerned about bone cancer or is experiencing persistent symptoms, such as unexplained bone pain, they should consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Is Bone Cancer Curable?
The question of whether bone cancer is curable is not easy to answer. It depends on many factors, such as the type and stage of bone cancer, the response to treatment, and the risk of recurrence or metastasis. Generally, bone cancer is much easier to heal in healthy people whose cancer has not metastasised to other parts of the body. However, some types of bone cancer are more aggressive and have a lower chance of cure.
The survival rates for bone cancer vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer. The stage of the cancer describes how much the cancer has grown and spread in the body. The lower the stage, the better the prognosis. The grade of the cancer demonstrates how abnormal the cancer cells can be seen inside a microscope. The greater the grade, the more aggressive the cancer.
The following are some examples of 5-year relative survival rates for certain types of bone cancer based on data from SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, & End Results), a program of the National Cancer Institute that collects and analyses information on cancer cases in the United States.
– Osteosarcoma: This is the most common kind of primary bone cancer. It usually affects teenagers and young adults. It often starts in the bones around the knee or shoulder.
– Localized (the cancer has not spread outside the bone): 77%
– Regional (the cancer has developed to nearby lymph nodes or bones): 65%
– Distant (the cancer has progressed to distant organs): 27%
– All stages combined: 61%
– Chondrosarcoma: This is the second most common type of primary bone cancer. It usually affects older adults. It often starts in the bones of the pelvis, ribs, or shoulder blade.
– Localized: 91%
– Regional: 76%
– Distant: 17%
– All stages combined: 79%
– Ewing sarcoma: This is a rare type of primary bone cancer that generally affects children & young adults. It often starts in the bones of the pelvis, chest wall, or legs.
– Localized: 83%
– Regional: 69%
– Distant: 38%
– All stages combined: 64%
– Chordoma: This is a very rare type of primary bone cancer that usually affects older adults. It often starts in the bones at the base of the skull or spine.
– Localized: 87%
– Regional: 84%
– Distant: 69%
– All stages combined: 82%
These numbers are only averages and do not reflect the individual factors that may affect a person’s prognosis. Some people may have a better or worse outcome than what these statistics suggest.
What Is Bone Cancer?
Bone cancer is one of the rare types of cancer that starts in the bone cells. It can affect both the bones themselves and the surrounding tissues, such as cartilage and soft tissues. There are several different types of bone cancer, and they can be categorised into two major groups:
1. Primary bone cancer: This type of bone cancer originates in the bone tissue itself. The most usual primary bone cancer is osteosarcoma, which typically affects the long bones, such as the arms and legs. Ewing sarcoma is another type of primary bone cancer that often develops in the pelvis, ribs, or long bones.
2. Secondary or metastatic bone cancer: This occurs when cancer from other parts of the body spreads (metastasises) to the bones. Common cancers that can metastasise to the bones include breast, lung, prostate, and kidney cancer. The cancer cells that spread to the bones are still considered to be the same type of cancer as the original tumour.
Types Of Bone Cancer
There are several types of bone cancer, with the most common ones being primary bone cancer and secondary bone cancer. Primary bone cancer starts in the bones themselves, while secondary bone cancer, also known as metastatic bone cancer, occurs when cancer from another part of the body spreads to the bones. Here are some of the primary bone cancer types:
1. Osteosarcoma: Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer and usually develops in the long bones, such as the arms and legs. It is more common in children and young adults.
2. Chondrosarcoma: Chondrosarcoma begins in the cartilage cells of the bone. It can occur in various bones but is most generally found in the pelvis, thigh bone, or upper arm bone.
3. Ewing’s sarcoma: Ewing’s sarcoma is a rare type of primary bone cancer that typically affects the long bones, ribs, and pelvis. It is more common in adolescents and young adults.
4. Fibrosarcoma: Fibrosarcoma originates in the fibrous tissue of the bone. It is a relatively rare type of bone cancer.
5. Chordoma: Chordoma is a slow-growing bone cancer that typically develops at the base of the skull or in the sacrum (lower part of the spine).
6. Adamantinoma: Adamantinoma is a rare type of primary bone cancer that often affects the tibia (shinbone) or the jaw.
7. Giant Cell Tumor of Bone: This tumour is usually benign, but it can be locally aggressive and may damage bone tissue. It often occurs around the knee.
8. Osteoblastoma: Osteoblastoma is another benign bone tumour that can be locally aggressive and cause pain. It is most common in the spine.
9. Eosinophilic Granuloma (Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis): This condition is not a true cancer but rather a disorder characterised by the overproduction of certain white blood cells. It can affect bones and other tissues in the body.
10. Paget’s Disease of Bone: This is a chronic condition where bone tissue is abnormally remodelled. It may lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of bone cancer in affected areas.
It’s important to note that primary bone cancers are relatively rare, and many bone tumours are benign rather than malignant. The treatment and prognosis for bone cancer depend on the type, stage, & location of the cancer, as well as the complete health of the patient.
Bone Cancer Diagnostic Test
Diagnosing bone cancer typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, & various diagnostic tests. Here are some common diagnostic tests and procedures used to identify bone cancer:
1. Medical History and Physical Examination: The process often begins with a thorough discussion of the patient’s medical history and symptoms. A physical examination is also conducted to evaluate any abnormalities, pain, or changes in the affected area. The doctor will ask about any family history of cancer and other relevant factors.
2. Imaging Studies:
a. X-rays: X-rays are frequently used to detect abnormalities in bone structure and to identify areas of bone destruction, growth, or fractures.
b. CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body, providing a more precise evaluation of the extent of bone involvement & any potential metastasis.
c. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is valuable for examining soft tissues like muscles and ligaments. It can also provide detailed images of the bone and any surrounding structures.
d. Bone Scan: A bone scan involves infusing a small group of radioactive material into the bloodstream, which is then consumed by the bones. This can help detect areas of increased bone activity, which may indicate bone cancer.
3. Biopsy: A definitive diagnosis of bone cancer typically requires a biopsy, which involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the suspected tumour. There are different types of biopsies:
a. Needle Biopsy: A needle is utilised to take a sample of tissue from the tumour. This is often guided by imaging studies to ensure accuracy.
b. Surgical Biopsy: In some cases, a surgical procedure may be necessary to remove a more significant portion of the tumour for examination.
4. Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for markers that can indicate the presence of bone cancer or evaluate overall health. Alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase levels are examples of markers that might be elevated in bone cancer patients.
5. Genetic Testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify specific genetic mutations or abnormalities that are associated with certain types of bone cancer, such as osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma.
6. Staging and Grading: Once a diagnosis of bone cancer is confirmed, further tests may be performed to determine the stage and grade of the cancer. This information helps guide treatment decisions.
It’s important to note that the exact diagnostic process may vary depending on the type and location of the bone cancer, as well as individual patient factors. A multidisciplinary unit of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, orthopaedic surgeons, and radiologists, typically work together to determine the most appropriate diagnostic plan for each patient.
Bone Cancer Treatment Cost In India
Bone cancer treatment cost in India varies widely depending on the type of treatment, the hospital, the doctor, and the city. The average price of bone cancer treatment in India is around INR 5,03,118 (USD 6,300), with a minimum of INR 90,561 (USD 1,134) and a maximum of INR 27,67,149 (USD 34,650). However, these costs are only estimates and may not include all the expenses involved in the treatment process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bone cancer is a complex condition that can affect anyone, but understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential for better outcomes. The symptoms can be subtle and often confused with other ailments, so early detection is crucial. While the exact causes of bone cancer remain largely unknown, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
When it comes to treatment, medical professionals offer various options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The choice of treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the individual patient’s health.
Timely diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and increase their chances of beating this formidable disease. Remember, knowledge and early detection are your best allies in the fight against bone cancer.
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