Osteosarcoma is an aggressive type of cancer that occurs in the bones. It usually occurs in teenagers and young adults, but can occur at any age. Osteosarcoma is characterized by the formation of abnormal cells that grow and spread rapidly inside the bone tissue.
Osteosarcoma usually starts in the growth plates or growth zones of bones in the limbs. The most commonly affected areas are usually near long bones such as the knee, upper arm, upper leg or pelvis (pelvis). Osteosarcoma is a rare cancer, but it is usually more aggressive than other types of cancer.
Symptoms of osteosarcoma can include bone pain, swelling, easy fractures and restricted movement. In some cases, the cancer can spread outside the bone and metastasize to other organs, especially the lungs.
Osteosarcoma is usually diagnosed with a series of imaging tests (X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging-MRI, computed tomography-CT) and a tissue sample (biopsy). Treatment may usually include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs that aim to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Surgery aims to remove the tumor and preserve healthy tissue. Radiotherapy involves using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
Once diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a treatment plan should be created, guided by a specialized healthcare team. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can increase the chances of improving the outcome of osteosarcoma.
