Benign bone tumor

A bone tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in your child's bones. When a tumor is benign (say "bih-NYN"), that means it's not cancer.

Benign bone tumors don't usually spread to other tissues and organs. They usually aren't life-threatening. But they can cause problems if they grow too much or damage healthy bone.

Most bone tumors are benign. Most are discovered in children while their bones are still growing. The tumor may stop growing when the bone stops growing.

Many benign bone tumors may not need to be treated. But if the tumor causes pain, weakens the bone, or keeps your child from moving a part of his or her body, it may need to be removed.

Sometimes the bone tumor can be felt as a bump on one of the bones. Or it might be inside the bone, and you won't feel it.

You may also feel pain near the tumor.

Tumors can weaken bone, which can then break, or fracture. A tumor that grows near a joint, like your shoulder or knee, may keep you from being able to move your arm or leg freely.

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and past health and will examine you. If your doctor can feel a bone tumor, or if you have other symptoms, you will get some tests. The tests can help make sure the tumor isn't cancer. They can also help the doctor find the best treatment for the tumor.

Your doctor may also find a tumor when taking X-rays or images for another problem.

• You may have one or more imaging tests to get a better look at the tumor. These may include:
  • X-rays.
  • A CT scan.
  • An MRI scan.
  • A bone scan.
• You may need a blood test and other lab tests.
• You may need a biopsy so a sample of the tumor can be looked at under a microscope.
• Doctors may also look at other parts of your body for other tumors.

Some benign bone tumors that aren't causing problems can be managed with regular checkups and imaging tests. But if the tumor is causing problems, then treatment will likely be needed.

A doctor may remove a tumor with surgery. If part of the bone is removed, it may be replaced with new bone or artificial bone.

Ask the doctor or specialist about other types of treatments available for the tumor.

After treatment, the doctor may want to check the area again to make sure the growth doesn't come back.

Get any checkups and tests your doctor recommends. If you have pain, ask your doctor about taking an over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If surgery is needed, follow any instructions you're given. Getting enough sleep can help you recover.