Is it cancer?

Bone cancer is rare, making up less than 1 percent of all cancers. The term bone cancer describes cancers that begin in the bone, and excludes cancers that begin in other parts of the body and spread or metastasize to the bone.

Though the cause of bone cancer isn’t completely clear, studies show that certain factors can predetermine a heightened risk for the condition, including:

• Inherited genetic conditions - certain genetic syndromes like Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma are passed down in families and can increase the risk of bone cancer.
• Paget’s disease - older adults who experience Paget’s disease of the bone are more likely to develop bone cancer later in life.
• Radiation therapy - radiation therapy like that given during cancer treatment can increase the risk of bone cancer in the future.

There are different types of bone cancers, usually distinguished by the area they affect, and some are more frequently occurring in children and young adults, while others affect mostly older adults. The type of cancer will determine the treatment recommended.

Signs and symptoms of bone cancer include:

• Bone pain
• Swelling and tenderness
• Weakened or fractured bones
• Unexplained weight loss

If you or your child experience bone pain that comes and goes, becomes worse at night, or is no longer relieved by over-the-counter pain medicine, you should make an appointment with a doctor or specialist.

If you are experiencing these issues, please make an appointment at Texas Joint Institute to see our specialist and surgeons. We will be able to observe your history, get to the source of your issues, and create a plan of treatment that is right for you.