Bone tumors occur when cells within a bone grow and divide uncontrollably, creating an abnormal mass or lump of tissue. Tumors are growths that are not normal. Benign tumors are non-cancerous growths that stay at their original location but can sometimes return after removal. Malignant tumors are cancerous and have the potential to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. They can also reappear at their starting site. When malignant tumors develop in bone or soft tissue, they are classified as sarcomas. Primary bone tumors in children include benign conditions like osteochondromas and malignant entities like osteosarcomas.
Most bone tumors are benign, meaning they are non-cancerous. Depending on the type of benign tumor, treatment can vary, ranging from simple monitoring to surgery to remove the tumor. In some cases, bone tumors are malignant, meaning they are cancerous. Malignant bone tumors have the potential to metastasize, or spread cancer cells to other parts of the body. Treatment for malignant bone tumors usually involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery to manage the tumor and prevent further spread.
Bone tumors can develop in any bone of the body and can affect different parts of the bone, from the surface to the center (bone marrow). As a bone tumor grows even if it’s benign it can destroy healthy tissue and weaken the bone, increasing the risk of fractures.
When it comes to cancerous bone tumors, they can be classified into two main categories: primary bone cancer and secondary bone cancer. Primary bone cancer originates in the bone itself, while secondary bone cancer, also known as metastatic bone disease, starts elsewhere in the body and spreads to the bone. Common types of cancers that often metastasize to the bone include: breast cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, renal (kidney) cancer, and prostate cancer.
The symptoms of bone tumors depend on their type, location, and growth. Bone tumors often cause pain that may worsen over time, sometimes occurring at night or when resting. Benign bone tumors might not cause pain, but can if they weaken the bone or rub against nerves. Symptoms include lumps, swelling, or fractures. In cases of spinal bone tumors, issues like muscle weakness, tingling, or bladder/bowel problems may occur. Soft tissue tumors most commonly present as a lump, with cancer in muscle tissues causing rapid growth. The symptoms also vary by location; for example, a tumor near the urinary tract may affect urination, while one at the skull’s base could cause nerve pain or weakness.